Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure

Atrial fibrillation in the presence of heart failure is an independent predictor of mortality and is associated with increased hospitalizations and worsening New York Heart Association functional class. Despite these associations, large-scale trials have not shown a benefit in rhythm restoration. However, further analysis of these trials showed that patients who remained in sinus rhythm did have improved survival rates. Studies to examine the efficacy of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation were therefore conducted and reported efficacy rates ranging from 50% to 92% at maintaining sinus rhythm with associated improvements in left ventricular ejection fraction, quality of life, and New York Heart Association functional class.