Radiofrequency ablation for a focal source of atrial fibrillation was associated with a 5% rate of cerebrovascular events, with higher risk in patients with prior transient ischemic attack.
Observational (n=56)
INTRODUCTION: Radiofrequency (RF) ablation has become an established treatment modality for patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). A principal limitation of RF catheter ablation is the risk of thromboembolism. Stroke as a complication after ablation of triggers of AF has not been previously reported. METHODS AND RESULTS: Fifty-six patients underwent RF ablation for a focal source of AF. Forty-nine patients (86%) had AF triggers in > or = 1 pulmonary vein. Mean procedure time was 227 +/- 74 minutes. Cerebrovascular event occurred in 3 (5%) patients, all >60 years old. Two of the three patients had a prior history of transient ischemic attacks. CONCLUSION: The risk of stroke from RF ablation may be higher in paroxysmal AF patients with prior transient ischemic attack.
Kok et al. (Thu,) conducted a observational in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (n=56). Radiofrequency (RF) ablation was evaluated on Cerebrovascular event. Radiofrequency ablation for a focal source of atrial fibrillation was associated with a 5% rate of cerebrovascular events, with higher risk in patients with prior transient ischemic attack.
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