Left atrial deformation predicts success of first and second percutaneous atrial fibrillation ablation

Predictors of second radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) success are not well known. Surgical ablation is accepted for failed first RFCA, but second RFCA has fewer complications.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate left atrial (LA) size and function as potential predictors of second RFCA for atrial fibrillation (AF).

Thirty-three healthy volunteers (group I) and 83 patients with symptomatic drug-refractory AF treated with a first RFCA (group II, n = 48) or a second RFCA (group III, n = 35 patients) were included. Echocardiography was performed in all patients in sinus rhythm before RFCA and in all volunteers. LA size and function were measured using longitudinal strain and strain rate during ventricular systole (LASs, LASRs) and during early diastole (LASRe) or late diastole (LASRa) with speckle tracking echocardiography. The effectiveness of RFCA on arrhythmia recurrence was evaluated at 6-month follow-up.

LASs, LASRs, and LASRa were significantly lower in group III patients compared to other groups (P < .001 for all). LA diameter or volumes did not predict success after RFCA. LASs was an independent predictor of arrhythmia suppression after a first RFCA and after a second RFCA, with the best cutoff at LASs >20% (sensitivity 86%, specificity 70%) and LASs >12% (sensitivity 84%, specificity 90%), respectively.

LA myocardial deformation imaging is a reliable tool for predicting success after a first and a second RFCA. These parameters could improve candidate selection, especially for a second RFCA.