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Updated: Feb 4, 2026
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Persistent left superior vena cava as an arrhythmogenic source in atrial fibrillation: results from a multicenter
Mohit K Turagam1, Moustapha Atoui2, Donita Atkins3
1Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
Background:
Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is one of the most frequently reported congenital anomalies and may be an important source of trigger of atrial fibrillation (AF).
Methods:
This was a multicenter retrospective experience including 28 patients with PLSVC who were referred for catheter ablation for drug-refractory symptomatic AF. Pulmonary vein and PLSVC isolation were performed (3.5-mm open irrigated tip ablation catheter at maximum power of 20 W, maximum temperature 43 °C with flow rate of 17 ml/min). Clinical outcomes such as complications and long-term freedom from AF were measured.
Results:
The mean age of the population was 61 ± 8 years, 21% were females, and AF duration was 60 ± 33 months. Sixty-one percent paroxysmal AF (17/28), 25% (7/28) persistent AF, and 14% (4/28) had long-standing persistent AF. There were no major complications that required any intervention. PLSVC isolation was achieved in 96% (27/28). Freedom from AF at 1 year without antiarrhythmic drugs was seen in 75% (21/28) of patients.
Conclusions:
In PLSVC patients with AF, segmental isolation of PLSVC appears to be feasible and safe and can translate into favorable clinical outcomes.
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