Representation of obesity in contemporary atrial fibrillation ablation randomized controlled trials.

Background: The prevalence and impact of obesity on outcomes of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have not been well studied.

Objective: To examine the proportion of participants with obesity enrolled in RCTs of AF ablation and outcomes of ablation when subgroup analysis of participants with obesity were available.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed and EMBASE for AF ablation RCTs published between January 1, 2015 to May 31, 2022.

Predictive value of interatrial block on electrocardiogram among obese patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation.

Background: Determine a predictive value of interatrial block (IAB) on atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation outcomes in obese patients.

Methods: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for 205 consecutive patients with body mass indices (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m who underwent initial AF ablation. Evidence of partial IAB defined as P-wave duration (PWD) ≥ 120 ms and advanced IAB with PWD ≥ 120 ms and biphasic or negative P-wave in inferior leads was examined from sinus electrocardiograms (ECGs) within 1-year pre-ablation.

Predictors of high-degree atrioventricular block in patients with new-onset left bundle branch block following transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Background: The development of new left bundle branch block (LBBB) is frequently seen post TAVR and is a known risk factor for progression to high degree AV block. The timing and likelihood of progression into complete heart block is variable and can develop after hospital discharge. We sought to determine predictors for the development of high degree AV block in patients who developed LBBB following TAVR.

Acute ST segment elevation secondary to acute gastric distention.

An adolescent male trauma patient developed new asymptomatic ST segment elevations that mimicked a myocardial infarction on infero-lateral telemetry leads on hospital day #8, following burn excision and skin grafting. This was confirmed on 12 lead electrocardiogram. Laboratory test results indicated normal potassium.