Cryoablation of atrial fibrillation.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects 1-2% of the population, and its prevalence is estimated to at least double in the next 50 years as the population ages.

Areas Of Agreement: AF results in impaired quality of life and even increased mortality. Drugs frequently fail to stabilize sinus rhythm.

Areas Of Controversy: Catheter ablation is a valuable treatment alternative, even as a first-line therapy in selected cases. However, catheter ablation of AF is challenging, even for experienced operators.

Growing Points: Simplification of catheter ablation of AF is essential to decrease the threshold for treatment, broaden the access to the therapy and contribute to further reduction of the disease burden. Single-shot devices, that are easy to navigate in the heart, are an essential element in efforts to reach this goal.

Areas Timely For Developing Research: Cryoenergy is an excellent energy source to combine with a single-shot device, resulting in an excellent safety profile and good clinical results while maintaining its ease of use.