Hybrid Epicardial-Endocardial Ablation Using a Pericardioscopic Technique for Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

Heartrhythmjournal.com/: 9/3/12

Catheter ablation is an effective treatment for medically refractory, disabling atrial fibrillation (AF). Ablation success may be limited in patients with persistent or long-standing persistent AF. A pericardioscopic, hybrid epicardial-endocardial technique for AF ablation may be a preferred approach for such patients. Limited data are available using such an approach.

Methods

A cohort of 101 patients underwent ablation of AF using a trans-diaphragmatic pericardioscopic, hybrid epicardial-endocardial technique. Patients were followed with 24-hour Holter monitors at 3, 6, and 12-month intervals. Symptom severity was assessed at baseline and follow-up using the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Severity of Atrial Fibrillation Scale (CCS-SAF). Read More