Wide circumferential versus individual isolation of pulmonary veins using the endoscopic ablation system.

INTRODUCTION

The endoscopic ablation system (EAS) allows for effective pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). The feasibility of wide circumferential as compared to individual PVI using the EAS has not been formally assessed.

METHODS

Patients with paroxysmal or short-persistent atrial fibrillation were assigned to individual PVI (group A) or wide circumferential PVI (group B). In group B, circumferential PVI was attempted only if the ipsilateral inferior PV was visualized while the ablation system targeted the superior PV and vice versa. Otherwise, individual PVI was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients were enrolled (Group A: 20 patients, age 61 ± 7 years, LA-diameter 43 ± 5 mm; Group B: 18 patients, age 62 ± 10 years, LA-diameter 43 ± 4 mm). In group A, 20/20 (100%) right superior (RSPV) and inferior (RIPV) PVs, 18/19 (95%) left superior (LSPV) and inferior (LIPV) PVs, and 1/1 (100%) left common ostium (LCPV) were successfully isolated. First-pass success rate was 95%, 85%, 68%, and 95% for the RSPV, RIPV, LSPV, and LIPV, respectively. Touch-up radiofrequency ablation was required in 1/19 (5%) LSPV and LIPV. In group B, an attempt at circumferential PVI was feasible in 2/18 (11%) septal PVs and successful on first pass. Lateral circumferential PVI was attempted and successful on first-pass in 7/13 (54%) LSPVs and LIPVs and 1/5 (20%) LCPVs.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the EAS in patients with AF, separate isolation of individual PVs rather than wide circumferential PVI should be the preferred ablation strategy.