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Whitaker J, Hunter TD, Carsey J, Thatcher WH, Yungher D, Goldberg S, Kaneko C, Amit M, Kreidieh O, Thurber C, Steiger N, Chang D, Batnyam U, Sharma E, McClennen S, Kapur S, Tadros T, Sauer WH, Koplan B, Tedrow U, Zei PC. Consistency of ablations with trainee and increasing independence during fellowship training-Analysis of ablation data by CARTONET. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2024. [PMID: 38924224 DOI: 10.1111/jce.16349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Training in clinical cardiac electrophysiology (CCEP) involves the development of catheter handling skills to safely deliver effective treatment. Objective data from analysis of ablation data for evaluating trainee of CCEP procedures has not previously been possible. Using the artificial intelligence cloud-based system (CARTONET), we assessed the impact of trainee progress through ablation procedural quality. METHODS Lesion- and procedure-level data from all de novo atrial fibrillation (AF) and cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablations involving first-year (Y1) or second-year (Y2) fellows across a full year of fellowship was curated within Cartonet. Lesions were automatically assigned to anatomic locations. RESULTS Lesion characteristics, including contact force, catheter stability, impedance drop, ablation index value, and interlesion time/distance were similar over each training year. Anatomic location and supervising operator significantly affected catheter stability. The proportion of lesion sets delivered independently and of lesions delivered by the trainee increased steadily from the first quartile of Y1 to the last quartile of Y2. Trainee perception of difficult regions did not correspond to objective measures. CONCLUSION Objective ablation data from Cartonet showed that the progression of trainees through CCEP training does not impact lesion-level measures of treatment efficacy (i.e., catheter stability, impedance drop). Data demonstrates increasing independence over a training fellowship. Analyses like these could be useful to inform individualized training programs and to track trainee's progress. It may also be a useful quality assurance tool for ensuring ongoing consistency of treatment delivered within training institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Whitaker
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College, London, UK
| | - Tina D Hunter
- CTI Clinical Trial & Consulting, Covington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jane Carsey
- CTI Clinical Trial & Consulting, Covington, Kentucky, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Mati Amit
- Biosense Webster, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Omar Kreidieh
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Clinton Thurber
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nathaniel Steiger
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Chang
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Uyanga Batnyam
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Esseim Sharma
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seth McClennen
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sunil Kapur
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas Tadros
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William H Sauer
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bruce Koplan
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Usha Tedrow
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul C Zei
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Omotoye S, Singleton MJ, Zagrodzky J, Clark B, Sharma D, Metzl MD, Gallagher MM, Meininghaus DG, Leung L, Garg J, Warrier N, Panico A, Tamirisa K, Sanchez J, Mickelsen S, Sardana M, Shah D, Athill C, Hayat J, Silva R, Clark AT, Gray M, Levi B, Kulstad E, Girouard S, Zagrodzky W, Montoya MM, Bustamante TG, Berjano E, González-Suárez A, Daniels J. Mechanisms of action behind the protective effects of proactive esophageal cooling during radiofrequency catheter ablation in the left atrium. Heart Rhythm O2 2024; 5:403-416. [PMID: 38984358 PMCID: PMC11228283 DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Proactive esophageal cooling for the purpose of reducing the likelihood of ablation-related esophageal injury resulting from radiofrequency (RF) cardiac ablation procedures is increasingly being used and has been Food and Drug Administration cleared as a protective strategy during left atrial RF ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. In this review, we examine the evidence supporting the use of proactive esophageal cooling and the potential mechanisms of action that reduce the likelihood of atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) formation. Although the pathophysiology behind AEF formation after thermal injury from RF ablation is not well studied, a robust literature on fistula formation in other conditions (eg, Crohn disease, cancer, and trauma) exists and the relationship to AEF formation is investigated in this review. Likewise, we examine the abundant data in the surgical literature on burn and thermal injury progression as well as the acute and chronic mitigating effects of cooling. We discuss the relationship of these data and maladaptive healing mechanisms to the well-recognized postablation pathophysiological effects after RF ablation. Finally, we review additional important considerations such as patient selection, clinical workflow, and implementation strategies for proactive esophageal cooling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jason Zagrodzky
- St. David’s Medical Center, Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, Austin, Texas
| | | | | | - Mark D. Metzl
- NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Mark M. Gallagher
- St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lisa Leung
- St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jalaj Garg
- Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, California
| | - Nikhil Warrier
- MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, Fountain Valley, California
| | | | - Kamala Tamirisa
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, Dallas, Texas
| | - Javier Sanchez
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | - Dipak Shah
- Ascension Providence Hospital, Detroit, Michigan
| | | | - Jamal Hayat
- Department of Gastroenterology, St George’s University Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rogelio Silva
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Advocate Aurora Christ Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Audra T. Clark
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Benjamin Levi
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Erik Kulstad
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | | | | | - Enrique Berjano
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana González-Suárez
- Translational Medical Device Lab, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Valencian International University, Valencia, Spain
| | - James Daniels
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Lazarus C, Sherman J, Putzel N, Zagrodzky W, Sharkoski T, Ro A, Nazari J, Fisher W, Kulstad E, Metzl M. Reduced Continuity Index with Proactive Esophageal Cooling Compared to Luminal Temperature Monitoring During Radiofrequency Ablation: Improved Lesion Continuity with Esophageal Cooling. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.04.09.24305586. [PMID: 38645228 PMCID: PMC11030476 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.09.24305586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Proactive esophageal cooling is FDA cleared to reduce the likelihood of esophageal injury during radiofrequency ablation for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Long-term follow-up data have also shown improved freedom from arrhythmia with proactive esophageal cooling compared to luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring during pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). One hypothesized mechanism is improved lesion contiguity (as measured by the Continuity Index) with the use of cooling. We aimed to compare the Continuity Index of PVI cases using proactive esophageal cooling to those using LET monitoring. Methods Continuity Index was calculated for PVI cases at two different hospitals within the same health system using a slightly modified Continuity Index to facilitate both real-time calculation during observation of PVI cases and retrospective determination from recorded cases. The results were then compared between proactively cooled cases and those using LET monitoring. Results Continuity Indices for a total of 101 cases were obtained; 77 cases using proactive esophageal cooling and 24 cases using traditional LET monitoring. With proactive esophageal cooling, the average Continuity Index was 2.7 (1.3 on the left pulmonary vein, and 1.5 on the right pulmonary vein). With LET monitoring, the average Continuity Index was 27.3 (14.3 on the left, and 12.9 on the right), for a difference of 24.6 (p < 0.001). Conclusion Proactive esophageal cooling during PVI is associated with significantly improved lesion contiguity when compared to LET monitoring. This finding may offer a mechanism for the greater freedom from arrhythmia seen with proactive cooling in long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob Sherman
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alex Ro
- NorthShore University Hospital, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jose Nazari
- NorthShore University Hospital, Evanston, IL, USA
| | | | - Erik Kulstad
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Mark Metzl
- NorthShore University Hospital, Evanston, IL, USA
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Willy K, Wolfes J, Müller P, Ellermann C, Dechering D, Lange PS, Rath B, Reinke F, Doldi F, Güner F, Köbe J, Leitz P, Frommeyer G, Laredo M, Eckardt L. Temperature to time Catch-Up: a novel procedural endpoint to predict durable pulmonary vein isolation after cryoballoon ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Clin Res Cardiol 2023:10.1007/s00392-023-02361-7. [PMID: 38112746 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-023-02361-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryoballoon ablation is a widely used single-shot technique for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Procedural endpoints ensuring maximal PVI durability are important. OBJECTIVE To assess the performance of cryoablation procedural markers to predict long-term PVI. METHODS In a single center, consecutive patients who underwent redo ablation with high-density mapping for symptomatic AF recurrence after cryoballoon ablation were included and cryoballoon procedural data were collected, including temperature values at 30 and 60 s, time to isolation, nadir temperature and the velocity of temperature decline estimated with the temperature/time catch-up point (T2T-Catch-Up) defined as positive when the freeze temperature in minus degree equals the time in seconds after cryoablation initiation (e.g. - 15 °C in the first 15 s of the ablation impulse). RESULTS 47 patients (62% male; 58.3 ± 11.2 years) were included. Overall, 38 (80.9%) patients had ≥ 1 reconnected PV. Among 186 PVs, 56 (30.1%; 1.2 per patient on average) were reconnected. Univariate analysis revealed T2T-Catch-Up in 103 (56%) and more frequent in durably isolated than in reconnected PVs (93 [72%] vs 10 [19%], p < 0.0001). Among binary endpoints, T2T-Catch-Up had the highest specificity (82%) and predictive value for durable PVI at redo ablation (90%). In multivariable analyses, absence of T2T-Catch-Up (Odds-ratio 0.12, 95% CI [0.05-0.31], p < 0.0001) and right superior PV (Odds-ratio 3.14, 95% CI [1.27-7.74], p = 0.01) were the only variables independently associated with PV reconnection. CONCLUSION T2T-Catch-Up, a new and simple cryoballoon procedural endpoint demonstrated excellent predictive value and strong statistical association with durable PVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Willy
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany.
| | - Julian Wolfes
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Patrick Müller
- Department of Electrophysiology, Klinikum Vest Recklinghausen, Recklinghausen, Germany
| | - Christian Ellermann
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Dirk Dechering
- Department of Cardiology, Niels-Stensen-Kliniken Marienhospital Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Philipp S Lange
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Benjamin Rath
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Florian Reinke
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Florian Doldi
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Fatih Güner
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Julia Köbe
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Patrick Leitz
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerrit Frommeyer
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
| | - Mikael Laredo
- Department of Cardiology and Electrophysiology, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Department of Cardiology II-Electrophysiology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48419, Münster, Germany
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Joseph C, Nazari J, Zagrodzky J, Brumback B, Sherman J, Zagrodzky W, Bailey S, Kulstad E, Metzl M. Improved 1-year outcomes after active cooling during left atrial radiofrequency ablation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2023; 66:1621-1629. [PMID: 36670327 PMCID: PMC10359433 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-023-01474-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active esophageal cooling during pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with radiofrequency (RF) ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly being utilized to reduce esophageal injury and atrioesophageal fistula formation. Randomized controlled data also show trends towards increased freedom from AF when using active cooling. This study aimed to compare 1-year arrhythmia recurrence rates between patients treated with luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring versus active esophageal cooling during left atrial ablation. METHOD Data from two healthcare systems (including 3 hospitals and 4 electrophysiologists) were reviewed for patient rhythm status at 1-year follow-up after receiving PVI for the treatment of AF. Results were compared between patients receiving active esophageal cooling (ensoETM, Attune Medical, Chicago, IL) and those treated with traditional LET monitoring using Kaplan-Meier estimates. RESULTS A total of 513 patients were reviewed; 253 received LET monitoring using either single or multi-sensor temperature probes; and 260 received active cooling. The mean age was 66.8 (SD ± 10) years, and 36.8% were female. Arrhythmias were 60.1% paroxysmal AF, 34.3% persistent AF, and 5.6% long-standing persistent AF, with no significant difference between groups. At 1-year follow-up, KM estimates for freedom from AF were 58.2% for LET-monitored patients and 72.2% for actively cooled patients, for an absolute increase in freedom from AF of 14% with active esophageal cooling (p = .03). Adjustment for the confounders of patient age, gender, type of AF, and operator with an inverse probability of treatment weighted Cox proportional hazards model yielded a hazard ratio of 0.6 for the effect of cooling on AF recurrence (p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS In this first study to date of the association between esophageal protection strategy and long-term efficacy of left atrial RF ablation, a clinically and statistically significant improvement in freedom from atrial arrhythmia at 1 year was found in patients treated with active esophageal cooling when compared to patients who received LET monitoring. More rigorous prospective studies or randomized studies are required to validate the findings of the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose Nazari
- NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jason Zagrodzky
- Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, St. David's South Austin Medical Center, 901 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704, USA
| | - Babette Brumback
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health & Health Professions, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Jacob Sherman
- Washington University in Saint Louis, 1 Brookings Dr, MO, 63130, St. Louis, USA
| | - William Zagrodzky
- Colorado College, 14 E Cache La Poudre St, Colorado Springs, CO, 80903, USA
| | - Shane Bailey
- Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, St. David's South Austin Medical Center, 901 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704, USA
| | - Erik Kulstad
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
| | - Mark Metzl
- NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, USA
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Kiedrowicz RM, Wielusinski M, Krasnik W, Jankowska O, Zakrzewski S, Duda L, Peregud-Pogorzelska M, Kladna A, Kazmierczak J. The Impact of Regional Maximum Tolerated Interlesion Distance on the Long-Term Ablation Outcomes in Ablation Index Guided Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Atrial Fibrillation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5056. [PMID: 37568458 PMCID: PMC10420066 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12155056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An adequate interlesion distance (ILD) applied during point-by-point pulmonary vein (PV) isolation for atrial fibrillation (AF) has never been established. We hypothesized that maximum tolerated ILD may differ between PV regions and may influence long-term ablation outcomes. METHODS A total of 260 AF patients underwent PV isolation with 3D electroanatomical platform. Postablation, ILD values were classified into 5 groups (6-5.5 mm, 5.5-5.0 mm, 5.0-4.5 mm, 4.5-4.0 mm and <4.0 mm); the number of tags in each group was calculated and correlated with postablation AF recurrence (AFR). All measurements were performed globally for the entire encirclement around each individual PV and regionally for designated PV anatomic segments. RESULTS Single-procedure freedom from AF was 81% for paroxysmal and 66% for persistent AF at 12 months. Global analysis showed that AFR was not related to median ILD nor the number of lesions within each ILD tag group for any PV. Segmental analysis showed that AFR was not related to median ILD. However, the presence of tags from the 5.5-6.0 mm ILD group located on the posterior aspect of right upper PV (RUPV) correlated with AFR. This was confirmed in a multivariable logistic regression model. CONCLUSIONS Maximum tolerated ILD of 6.0 mm translated into well-accepted ablation results. However, the study suggests that it may be inadequate at the posterior aspect of RUPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw M. Kiedrowicz
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | - Maciej Wielusinski
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | - Wojciech Krasnik
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | - Olga Jankowska
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | - Szymon Zakrzewski
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | - Lukasz Duda
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
| | | | - Aleksandra Kladna
- Department of History of Medicine and Medical Ethics, Pomeranian Medical University, Rybacka 1, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jaroslaw Kazmierczak
- Cardiology Department, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland (O.J.)
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Yamaguchi J, Takigawa M, Goya M, Martin CA, Yamamoto T, Ikenouchi T, Shigeta T, Nishimura T, Tao S, Miyazaki S, Sasano T. Comparison of three different approaches to very high-power short-duration ablation using the QDOT-MICRO catheter. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2023; 34:888-897. [PMID: 36852902 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The QDOT-MICRO™ catheter allows very high-power and short-duration (vHPSD) ablation. This study aimed to investigate lesion characteristics using different ablation settings. METHODS Radiofrequency applications (90 W/4 s, temperature-control mode with 55°C or 60°C target) were performed in excised porcine myocardium using three different approaches: single (SA), double nonrepetitive (DNRA), and double repetitive applications (DRA). Applications were performed with an interval of 1 min for DNRA, and without interval for DRA. RESULTS A total of 480 lesions were analyzed. Lesion depth and volume were largest for DRA followed by DNRA and SA regardless of catheter direction (depth: 3.8 vs. 3.3 vs. 2.6 mm, p < .001 for all comparisons; volume: 176.6 vs. 145.1 vs. 97.0 mm3 , p < .001 for all comparisons). Surface area was significantly larger for DRA than for SA (45.1 vs. 38.3 mm2 , p < .001) and larger for DNRA than for SA (44.5 vs. 38.3 mm2 , p < .001), but was similar between DRA and DNRA (45.1 vs. 44.5 mm2 , p = .54). Steam-pops more frequently occurred for DRA than for SA (15.6% vs. 4.4%, p = .004) and DNRA (15.6% vs. 6.9%, p = .061), but the incidence was similar between SA and DNRA (4.4% vs. 6.9%, p = 1). Although surface area and lesion volume were larger in lesions with steam-pops than without steam-pops (46.5 vs. 38.1 mm2 , p = .018 and 128.3 vs. 96.8 mm3 , p = .068, respectively), lesions were not deeper (pop(+): 2.5 mm vs. pop(-): 2.6 mm, p = .75). CONCLUSIONS DNRA produces larger lesions than SA without increasing the risk of steam-pops. DRA produces the largest lesions among the three groups, but with an increased risk of steam-pops. Even with steam-pops, lesions do not become deeper in vHPSD ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Laboratory Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masateru Takigawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiko Goya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Claire A Martin
- Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tasuku Yamamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Ikenouchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Shigeta
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuro Nishimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Susumu Tao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Miyazaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Sasano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Kushnir A, Barbhaiya CR, Aizer A, Jankelson L, Holmes D, Knotts R, Park D, Spinelli M, Bernstein S, Chinitz LA. Temporal trends in atrial fibrillation ablation procedures at an academic medical center: 2011-2021. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2023; 34:800-807. [PMID: 36738147 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiofrequency ablation technology for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) has evolved rapidly over the past decade. We investigated the impact of technological and procedural advances on procedure times and ablation outcomes at a major academic medical center over a 10-year period. METHODS Clinical data was collected from patients who presented to NYU Langone Health between 2011 and 2021 for a first-time AF ablation. Time to redo AF ablation or direct current cardioversion (DCCV) for recurrent AF during a 3-year follow-up period was determined and correlated with ablation technology and practices, antiarrhythmic medications, and patient comorbid conditions. RESULTS From 2011 to 2021, the cardiac electrophysiology lab adopted irrigated-contact force ablation catheters, high-power short duration ablation lesions, steady-pacing, jet ventilation, and eliminated stepwise linear ablation for AF ablation. During this time the number of first time AF ablations increased from 403 to 1074, the percentage of patients requiring repeat AF-related intervention within 3-years of the index procedure dropped from 22% to 14%, mean procedure time decreased from 271 ± 65 to 135 ± 36 min, and mean annual major adverse event rate remained constant at 1.1 ± 0.5%. Patient comorbid conditions increased during this time period and antiarrhythmic use was unchanged. CONCLUSION Rates of redo-AF ablation or DCCV following an initial AF ablation at a single center decreased 36% over a 10-year period. Procedural and technological changes likely contributed to this improvement, despite increased AF related comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Kushnir
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Chirag R Barbhaiya
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Anthony Aizer
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Lior Jankelson
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Douglas Holmes
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Robert Knotts
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - David Park
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Michael Spinelli
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Scott Bernstein
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Larry A Chinitz
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
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Kaul R, Barbhaiya CR. Hotter? Yes. Faster? Yes. Better? Maybe. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2023; 34:379-381. [PMID: 36525459 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Risheek Kaul
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chirag R Barbhaiya
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
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10
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Leung LWM, Akhtar Z, Elbatran AI, Bajpai A, Li A, Norman M, Kaba R, Sohal M, Zuberi Z, Gallagher MM. Effect of esophageal cooling on ablation lesion formation in the left atrium: Insights from Ablation Index data in the IMPACT trial and clinical outcomes. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2022; 33:2546-2557. [PMID: 36284450 PMCID: PMC10091801 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The IMPACT study established the role of controlled esophageal cooling in preventing esophageal thermal injury during radiofrequency (RF) ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). The effect of esophageal cooling on ablation lesion delivery and procedural and patient outcomes had not been previously studied. The objective was to determine the effect of esophageal cooling on the formation of RF lesions, the ability to achieve procedural endpoints, and clinical outcomes. METHODS Participants in the IMPACT trial underwent AF ablation guided by Ablation Index (30 W at 350-400 AI posteriorly, 40 W at ≥450 AI anteriorly). A blinded 1:1 randomization assigned patients to the use of the ensoETM® device to keep esophageal temperature at 4°C during ablation or standard practice using a single-sensor temperature probe. Ablation parameters and clinical outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS Procedural data from 188 patients were analyzed. Procedure and fluoroscopy times were similar, and all pulmonary veins were isolated. First-pass pulmonary vein isolation and reconnection at the end of the waiting period were similar in both randomized groups (51/64 vs. 51/68; p = 0.54 and 5/64 vs. 7/68; p = 0.76, respectively). Posterior wall isolation was also similar: 24/33 versus 27/38; p = 0.88. Ablation effect on tissue, measured in impedance drop, was no different between the two randomized groups: 8.6Ω (IQR: 6-11.8) versus 8.76Ω (IQR: 6-12.2; p = 0.25). Arrhythmia recurrence was similar after 12 months (21.1% vs. 24.1%; 95% CI: 0.38-1.84; HR: 0.83; p = 0.66). CONCLUSIONS Esophageal cooling has been shown to be effective in reducing ablation-related thermal injury during RF ablation. This protection does not compromise standard procedural endpoints or clinical success at 12 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa W M Leung
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Zaki Akhtar
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ahmed I Elbatran
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK.,Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abhay Bajpai
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anthony Li
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mark Norman
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Riyaz Kaba
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Manav Sohal
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Zia Zuberi
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mark M Gallagher
- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
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- Department of Cardiology, St. George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St. George's Hospital, London, UK
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11
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Cooper J, Joseph C, Zagrodzky J, Woods C, Metzl M, Turer RW, McDonald SA, Kulstad E, Daniels J. Active esophageal cooling during radiofrequency ablation of the left atrium: data review and update. Expert Rev Med Devices 2022; 19:949-957. [PMID: 36413154 PMCID: PMC9839561 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2022.2150930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the left atrium of the heart is increasingly used to treat atrial fibrillation (AF). Unfortunately, inadvertent thermal injury to the esophagus can occur during this procedure, potentially creating an atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) which is 80% fatal. The ensoETM (Attune Medical, Chicago, IL), is an esophageal cooling device that has been shown to reduce thermal injury to the esophagus during RF ablation. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes growing evidence related to active esophageal cooling during RF ablation for the treatment of AF. The review presents data demonstrating improved outcomes related to patient safety and procedural efficiency and suggests directions for future research. EXPERT OPINION The use of active esophageal cooling during RF ablation reduces esophageal injury, reduces or eliminates fluoroscopy requirements, reduces procedure duration and post-operative pain, and increases long-term freedom from arrhythmia. These effects in turn increase patient same-day discharge rates, decrease operator cognitive load, and reduce cost. These findings are likely to further accelerate the adoption of active esophageal cooling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Cooper
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | | | - Jason Zagrodzky
- Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, Austin, TX 78704
| | | | - Mark Metzl
- NorthShore University Health System, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201
| | - Robert W. Turer
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | | | - Erik Kulstad
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - James Daniels
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
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12
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Procedural time reduction associated with active esophageal cooling during pulmonary vein isolation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2022; 65:617-623. [PMID: 35416632 PMCID: PMC9726815 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01204-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active esophageal cooling is increasingly utilized as an alternative to luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring for protection against thermal injury during pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) when treating atrial fibrillation (AF). Published data demonstrate the efficacy of active cooling in reducing thermal injury, but impacts on procedural efficiency are not as well characterized. LET monitoring compels pauses in ablation due to heat stacking and temperature overheating alarms that in turn delay progress of the PVI procedure, whereas active esophageal cooling allows avoidance of this phenomenon. Our objective was to measure the change in PVI procedure duration after implementation of active esophageal cooling as a protective measure against esophageal injury. METHODS We performed a retrospective review under IRB approval of patients with AF undergoing PVI between January 2018 and February 2020. For each patient, we recorded age, gender, and total procedure time. We then compared procedure times before and after the implementation of active esophageal cooling as a replacement for LET monitoring. RESULTS A total of 373 patients received PVI over the study period. LET monitoring using a multi-sensor probe was performed in 198 patients, and active esophageal cooling using a dedicated device was performed in 175 patients. Patient characteristics did not significantly differ between groups (mean age of 67 years, and gender 37.4% female). Mean procedure time was 146 ± 51 min in the LET-monitored patients, and 110 ± 39 min in the actively cooled patients, representing a reduction of 36 min, or 24.7% of total procedure time (p < .001). Median procedure time was 141 [IQR 104 to 174] min in the LET-monitored patients and 100 [IQR 84 to 122] min in the actively cooled patients, for a reduction of 41 min, or 29.1% of total procedure time (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Implementation of active esophageal cooling for protection against esophageal injury during PVI was associated with a significantly large reduction in procedure duration.
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Zagrodzky J, Bailey S, Shah S, Kulstad E. Impact of Active Esophageal Cooling on Fluoroscopy Usage During Left Atrial Ablation. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2021; 12:4749-4755. [PMID: 34676132 PMCID: PMC8519316 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2021.121101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Risks to collateral structures exist with radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the left atrium to obtain pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Passive luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring is commonly utilized, but increasing data suggest limited benefits with LET monitoring. In contrast, active cooling of the esophagus has been shown to significantly reduce esophageal injury. Active cooling of the esophagus also avoids the need for stopping and repositioning an LET probe during use, which may reduce the need for fluoroscopy use. This study aimed to measure the impact on fluoroscopy use during RF ablation with esophageal cooling using a dedicated cooling device in a low-fluoroscopy practice. All patients who underwent PVI over a one-year timeframe by a single provider were analyzed. Patients undergoing PVI prior to the incorporation of an esophageal cooling protocol into standard ablation practice were treated with traditional LET monitoring. Patients treated after this point received active esophageal cooling, in which no LET monitoring is utilized. A total of 280 patients were treated; 91 patients were treated using LET monitoring, and 189 patients were treated with esophageal cooling. The mean total fluoroscopy time before the implementation of the esophageal cooling protocol in 91 patients was 194 seconds [standard deviation (SD): 182 seconds] per case, with a median of 144 seconds. The mean total fluoroscopy time after implementation in 189 patients was 126 seconds (SD: 120 seconds) per case with a median of 96 seconds, representing a reduction of 35% per case (p < 0.0001, Mann-Whitney U test). In this largest study to date of active esophageal cooling during PVI, a 35% reduction in fluoroscopy time compared with patients who received LET monitoring was found. This reduction was seen despite an already low fluoroscopy usage rate in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Zagrodzky
- Department of Electrophysiology, St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Shane Bailey
- Department of Electrophysiology, St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Erik Kulstad
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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[Pulmonary vein isolation using radiofrequency ablation]. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2021; 32:395-405. [PMID: 34309747 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-021-00794-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Catheter ablation represents the primary treatment for most arrhythmias. The effectiveness of catheter ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation is superior to drug therapy. Therefore, catheter ablation has been established as an increasingly common procedure in clinical routine. In this context, the electrical isolation of the pulmonary veins (PVI) constitutes the cornerstone of the interventional therapy of paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation. This article describes the procedure of pulmonary vein isolation utilizing radiofrequency point-by-point ablation. It shall be a practical guide for the staff in the electrophysiological laboratory. This article continues a series of manuscripts focusing on interventional electrophysiology topics in the course of EP (electrophysiology) training.This article describes the procedure of pulmonary vein isolation utilizing radiofrequency point-by-point ablation. It shall be a practical guide for the staff in the electrophysiological laboratory. This article continues a series of manuscripts dealing with topics of interventional electrophysiology in the course of EP training.
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Jiang B, Gu JW, Song YY, Bai L, Liu XD, Zhang YJ, Li ML, Yang J, Liu L, Wang Y. Effects of Modified Simultaneous Unipolar Saline-Irrigated Radiofrequency Ablation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Combined with Mitral Valve Disease. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:1547-1553. [PMID: 34079338 PMCID: PMC8165650 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s302209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the therapeutic effects of a modified simultaneous unipolar saline-irrigated radiofrequency ablation by intracardiac operation under direct vision in patients with mitral valve diseases combined with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods A total of 168 patients with mitral valve diseases combined with AF who underwent unipolar saline-irrigated radiofrequency ablation modified maze procedures were enrolled and divided into the mitral stenosis (MS) group (n = 87) and the mitral insufficiency (MI) group (n = 81). Results Those with a left atrium diameter (LAD) < 55 mm had a better cardioversion effect during the mid-term post-operation than those with a LAD ≥ 55 mm (P < 0.05). The cardioversion effect during the mid-term post-operation was better in those with a duration of AF < 2 years than those with AF ≥ 2 years (P < 0.05). The LAD reduced significantly during the early postoperative period in the MS group (P < 0.05). Compared with the early postoperative period, LAD further reduced, and the EF increased significantly during the mid-term post-operation (P<0.05). The LAD reduced significantly during the early postoperative period in the MI group (P < 0.05), together with relatively decreased EF (P < 0.05). Compared with the early postoperative period, LAD further reduced, and the EF increased significantly during the mid-term post-operation (P<0.05). The improvement of LAD in the MI group during the mid-term post-operation was better than that in the MS group (P < 0.05). Conclusion The cardioversion effects and the improvement in cardiac function during the mid-term post-operation were good in the radiofrequency ablation by intracardiac operation under direct vision in patients with different mitral valve diseases combined with AF. The cardioversion effects during the early postoperative period and the mid-term post-operation were better in patients with MI than in those with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Wei Gu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Yan Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Bai
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu-Dong Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Jing Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Liang Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
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