A randomized clinical trial of early invasive intervention for atrial fibrillation (EARLY-AF) - methods and rationale.

Background: The ideal management of patients with newly diagnosed symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unknown. Current practice guidelines recommend a trial of antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD) prior to considering an invasive ablation procedure. However, earlier ablation offers an opportunity to halt the progressive patho-anatomical changes associated with AF, as well as impart other important clinical benefits.

Robotic-assisted left atrial ligation for stroke reduction in chronic atrial fibrillation: a case report.

Patients with atrial fibrillation are at significant risk for sustaining a thromboembolic stroke. More than 90% of thromboemboli form in the left atrial appendage. Ligation of the left atrial appendage to reduce the risk of stroke is often performed in connection with other cardiac surgical procedures.