Quality of life and patient-centered outcomes following atrial fibrillation ablation: short- and long-term perspectives to improving care

Abstract

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has evolved as a potential curative option for drug-refractory AF in recent years. AF not only causes physical morbidity but also jeopardizes the mental and social health of the patient as well as predisposing the patient to increased risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, the primary end points of AF ablation have been restoration of sinus rhythm, improvement in the quality of life and lowering the risk of cerebrovascular accidents. However, even in the best hands, AF ablation is yet to be a total success. Several risk factors of AF and parameters of catheter ablation influence the short- and long-term ablation outcome. This article reviews all the information that has been contributed by prominent independent researchers over the last decade.

Thromboembolic Events 7–11 Years after Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation

“…At 5 years and beyond, it remains difficult to determine the exact physiopathology without invasive mapping. Progression of atrial remodeling and fibrosis may certainly play a role in late AF recurrence, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities . Our finding of the association of arrhythmia recurrence with dyslipidemia or a higher CHA2DS2‐VASc score points to possible modulation of the underlying electrophysiological substrate by these risk factors as also suggested by studies in patients without ablation…”

Long‐Term Outcome of Catheter Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation Patients with Coexistent Metabolic Syndrome and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Impact of Repeat Procedures versus Lifestyle Changes

“…Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects physical health, impairs quality of life, and is associated with a 5‐fold increase in the risk of stroke. To make matters worse, it is currently considered as a growing epidemic, with AF‐related hospitalizations being predicted to climb over 3.3 million by 2025 . Therefore, the momentum to find a cure for AF is greater than ever before.…”

“…To make matters worse, it is currently considered as a growing epidemic, with AF-related hospitalizations being predicted to climb over 3.3 million by 2025. 1 Therefore, the momentum to find a cure for AF is greater than ever before.…”