Cryoablation of atrial fibrillation

<span class="paragraphSection"><div class="boxTitle">Background</div>Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects 1–2% of the population, and its prevalence is estimated to at least double in the next 50 years as the population ages.<div class="boxTitle">Areas of agreement</div>AF results in impaired quality of life and even increased mortality. Drugs frequently fail to stabilize sinus rhythm.<div class="boxTitle">Areas of controversy</div>Catheter ablation is a valuable treatment alternative, even as a first-line therapy in selected cases. However, catheter ablation of AF is challenging, even for experienced operators.<div class="boxTitle">Growing points</div>Simplification of catheter ablation of AF is essential to decrease the threshold for treatment, broaden the access to the therapy and contribute to further reduction of the disease burden. Single-shot devices, that are easy to navigate in the heart, are an essential element in efforts to reach this goal.<div class="boxTitle">Areas timely for developing research</div>Cryoenergy is an excellent energy source to combine with a single-shot device, resulting in an excellent safety profile and good clinical results while maintaining its ease of use.</span>
Source: British Medical Bulletin - Category: Journals (General) Source Type: research