Linear Ablation Using a Contact Force-Sensing Catheter in Ablation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: A Prospective Randomized Trial

Background/Objectives: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using radiofrequency catheter ablation with contact force (CF)-sensing technology has improved long-term outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation. This prospective randomized study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of CF-sensing technology for additional left atrial (LA) linear ablation of persistent AF (PerAF). Methods: After PVI, anteromitral (AM) line and roof line ablation were performed using a CF-sensing catheter. Patients were randomly assigned to either the CF-sensing (CFS) group or the CF-blind control (Blind) group. The primary endpoint was atrial arrhythmia recurrence. LA late gadolinium enhancement (LA-LGE) MRI was conducted at baseline and 1-year follow-up for long-term lesion evaluation. Results: A total of 62 patients with drug-refractory PerAF were enrolled (mean age: 58 ± 10 years; 77% male). The success rates of AM and roof line block were 97% and 100% in the CFS group (n = 33) and 93% and 90% in the Blind group (n = 29). The time to achieve block was reduced in the CFS group (AM: 36 ± 22 vs. 48 ± 28 min, p = 0.068; roof: 19 ± 14 vs. 27 ± 15 min, p = 0.031). The maximum CF for safety endpoints was significantly lower in the CFS group (AM: 42 vs. 69 g, p < 0.001; roof: 33 vs. 49 g, p = 0.003). Full linear LA-LGE formation on 1-year MRI did not differ significantly between the groups (AM: 17 vs. 36%; roof; 29 vs. 24%, both p = NS). Kaplan–Meier estimates of AF/AT-free survival after ablation procedures were 63.6% in the CFS group and 58.6% in the Blind group (log-rank p = 0.837). Conclusions: In patients with PerAF, additional LA linear ablation following PVI using CF-sensing technology improved procedural safety and reduced the time needed to achieve conduction block. However, it did not significantly influence clinical outcomes or the formation of permanent full linear lesions.