Atrial fibrillation ablation: indications, emerging techniques, and follow-up

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and its prevalence is expected to increase as our population ages. The medical management of AF has yielded only modest success, and over the past 15years, catheter ablation (CA) has become a mainstay in the treatment for AF. Advancements in the tools used for CA have improved outcomes in patients with both paroxysmal and persistent forms of AF. Additionally, the use of various post-procedure ECG monitoring devices is important for guiding the long-term management of patients with AF. However, long-term AF control in these patients also requires management of other medical comorbidities and risk factors associated with AF.