Meta-analysis Comparing Cryoballoon Versus Radiofrequency as First Ablation Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Radiofrequency (RF) represents a standard of care for PVI, while, cryoballoon (CB) ablation has emerged as a valid alternative. The aim of our meta-analysis was to explore the efficacy and safety of CB compared with RF as first ablation procedure for AF. We searched the literature for studies that investigated this issue. The primary efficacy outcome was AF recurrence. The safety outcomes were: pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, phrenic nerve palsy, vascular complications, and major bleedings.

Source: The American Journal of Cardiology - January 26, 2020 Category: Cardiology Authors: Federico Fortuni, Matteo Casula, Antonio Sanzo, Filippo Angelini, Stefano Cornara, Alberto Somaschini, Giacomo Mugnai, Roberto Rordorf, Gaetano Maria De Ferrari Source Type: research