Short and long-term changes in platelet and inflammatory biomarkers after cryoballoon and radiofrequency ablation

Cryoballoon (CB) versus radiofrequency (RF) ablation response on prothrombotic biomarkers obtained different results at short-term, while long-term is still unknown in atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment. We evaluated short and long-term changes in platelet and inflammatory biomarkers after CB and RF ablation.

Fifty-eight paroxysmal AF patients were randomized for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation using either CB (n = 29) or RF (n = 29) ablation. Biomarkers of platelet activation [P-selectin (CD62P), CD40 ligand (CD40L), platelet factor-4 (PF-4), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet-leukocyte ratio (P-LCR), and platelet distribution width (PDW)]; and inflammatory [high sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)] were measured at baseline, 18-24 h and 6-Months postablation.

Twenty-four (86.2%) and twenty-six (89.7%) patients remained in sinus rhythm at 6-Months in CB and RF group respectively (p = 0.500). After 18-24 h postablation, CD62P, CD40L, PF-4, hs-CRP, and IL-6 levels were significantly activated in both groups (p < 0.001). However, CD62P was significantly lower in CB than RF (p = 0.017). At 6-Month postablation in CB group, all platelet biomarkers CD62P (p = 0.021), CD40L (p < 0.001), PF-4 (p < 0.001), MPV (p = 0.010), PDW (p = 0.004), and P-LCR (p = 0.033) were significantly decreased compared to baseline levels. However in RF group, CD40L and PF-4 (p < 0.001) significant decreased, CD62P (p = 0.022) increased, and no change in MPV and P-LCR (p > 0.05) compared to baseline levels. hs-CRP and IL-6 levels were comparable between baseline and 6-Months in both groups (p > 0.05).

CB ablation might influence the risk of thromboembolism due to less platelet activation after PV isolation and decreased platelet activation at long-term in maintained sinus rhythm patients compared to RF.