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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
[Patient selection for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation]
1Departamento de Electrocardiología, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología "Ignacio Chávez", INCICH, Juan Badiano Núm. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Tlalpan 14080, México, DF. manliomarquez@yahoo.com
Insights
Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) offers a safe and effective treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). This curative procedure involves detailed mapping and pulmonary vein isolation for optimal patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Procedures
Context:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) management
- Referral to specialized AF clinics
- National Institute of Cardiology program
Purpose:
- Describe the RFCA program for AF patients
- Outline inclusion criteria and procedural steps
- Detail postoperative follow-up protocols
Summary:
- Electrophysiological study using transseptal approach and mapping catheters to detect abnormal electrical activity (AEA).
- Pulmonary vein isolation techniques tailored for paroxysmal AF (ostial/antral) and chronic AF (global PVI with additional lines).
- Postoperative monitoring includes consultations, ECG, and Holter monitoring at specified intervals.
Impact:
- RFCA is a useful and relatively safe treatment for AF.
- Demonstrates the only potentially curative option for AF.
- Highlights the importance of specialized AF clinics and tailored ablation strategies.
Abstract:
The present report describes the program of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients referred to the AF Clinic of the National Institute of Cardiology. Specific inclusion criteria are required for RFCA of AF. If the patient fulfills it, then an electrophysiological study is performed. A transseptal approach and special mapping catheters are used to detect abnormal electrical activity (AEA). Pulmonary vein isolation is performed at the ostium/ antrum of those veins with AEA if the patient had paroxysmal AF. Global pulmonary vein isolation with some additional lines guided by electroanatomical mapping is performed in the case of chronic AF. Postoperative follow-up includes consultation, ECG and Holter monitoring at 1, 3, 6 and 12-month. RFCA is a useful and relatively safe procedure for the treatment of AF and the only one with curative potential.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiac Catheterization I: Pre-Procedure Overview
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management
Dysrhythmias VI: Management of Dysrhythmias

