Since the advent of catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF)
in 1998, our understanding of the pathophysiology, as well as our
capacity to target triggers and effectively achieve freedom from AF, has
come a long way. However, as the average age of the population and the
prevalence of chronic diseases increases, the progression of AF from
paroxysmal (PAF) into persistent (PersAF) and long-standing persistent
AF (LSPAF) is on the rise. Given the complex mechanisms involved and the
presence of multiple trigger sites leading to recurrences, managing
non-PAF is a challenge for electrophysiologists around the globe.
Multiple ablation techniques have been investigated, some of which have
shown promising results, but a standardized technique is yet to be
elucidated. In this review, we outline the evidence behind contemporary
ablation techniques in the treatment of AF.