What can we use to predict late recurrence after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation?

Catheter ablation (CA) is much more effective in reducing symptoms and rhythm control compared to anti-arrhythmic drugs and recommended as a first-line treatment for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) [1]. In spite of the ever-increasing evidences on benefits of CA, AF recurrence is common post CA and fewer AF patients are willing to accept ablation treatment in the clinical practice, which need to be taken consideration by the physicians before making the decision. Many clinical diseases or factors such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, untreated obstructive sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, AF type, enlarged left atrium, early recurrence post ablation even female sex, have been identified as risk factors for AF recurrence post CA [2].
Source: International Journal of Cardiology - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research