A prospective randomized study comparing isolation of the arrhythmogenic vein versus all veins in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND

Ablation procedures in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) includes isolation of all pulmonary veins (PVs). We hypothesized that an approach using an algorithm to detect arrhythmogenic PVs (aPVs) might lead to shorter procedure duration (PD) and fewer proarrhythmic effects (PE).

HYPOTHESIS

Isolation of the aPVs only leads to a reduced PD, reduced PEs, and fewer adverse events, with a success rate comparable to the standard all-PV approach.

METHODS

In this prospective trial, 207 patients with PAF were randomized to undergo isolation of the aPV (AG group, n = 105) or isolation of all PVs (VG group, n = 102). The aPV was identified by atrial fibrillation (AF) induction, focal discharge, or short local PV decremental conduction during PV pacing. Patients were followed with repetitive 7-day Holter electrocardiograms (ECGs) after 3, 6, and 12 months in our arrhythmia clinic.

RESULTS

In 97% of patients, at least 1 aPV was identified (mean, 2.1). PD did not differ significantly (152.3 ± 57.1 minutes vs 162 ± 68 minutes, P = 0.27) between the groups, but the number of radiofrequency (RF) applications and fluoroscopy time (FT) and dose were significantly lower in the AG group than in the VG group. The occurrence of PE (new-onset atrial tachycardia) and adverse events (AE) did not differ between the 2 groups (P = 0.1). Sinus rhythm off antiarrhythmic medication (documented on 7-day Holter ECGs) 12 months after a single procedure was achieved in 53% in the AG group and 59% in the VG group (P = 0.51).

CONCLUSIONS

Isolation of the aPVs detected by a straightforward algorithm leads to similar success rates compared to a standard all-PV approach with regard to PD, AE, or PE and is associated with less RF and a shorter FT.