AI Article Synopsis
- The objective of the study was to conduct a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effectiveness of catheter ablation for treating atrial fibrillation (AF).
- While observational studies suggest that radiofrequency (RF) ablation may help reduce AF recurrence, only five RCTs involving 578 patients met the inclusion criteria for this review, indicating a moderate quality of evidence.
- The findings confirmed that RF-ablation is more effective than medication in preventing the return of AF, although the studies had limitations, including a lack of elderly participants aged over 70 and a follow-up period of only one year.
Article Abstract
Objective: To perform a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF).
Background: Radiofrequency catheter (RF)-ablation around pulmonary vein ostia and in left atrium may reduce or prevent recurrence of AF, as documented in observational studies and registry reports; however, few RCTs are available.
Methods: Using relevant search phrases, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for RCTs, last time in May 2007. Titles and abstracts were screened. When entry criteria were fulfilled, full-text papers were read and graded according to quality and relevance.
Results: One thousand and ninety four abstracts were evaluated, and five RCTs included (578 randomized patients). The studies had moderate quality and relevance, but the results were consistent: ablation is better than drug treatment in preventing AF recurrence; the relative risk (95% CI)) one year after ablation ranged from 0.20 (0.08-0.51) to 0.62 (0.39-0.99).
Conclusions: Results from observational and registry studies are confirmed: RF-ablation reduces recurrence rate of AF, and can be done with few serious complications. Limitations are few patients>70 years, and only one year follow-up.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14017430701798838 | DOI Listing |
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