Predictors of Short and Long Term Recurrences of Paroxysmal AF after Radiofrequency Ablation. Is Blanking Period...

Following pulmonary vein isolation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), early recurrences of atrial arrhythmias (ERAA) are frequent, classified benign as a part of a blanking period. But recently it seems that there is increased incidence of late recurrences in patients with ERAA but mechanism is still unknown.

To assess the incidence and risk factors for early and late AF recurrences post AF ablation and the impact of these ERAA on long-term success.

Thirty-six consecutive patients (age 45 ± 11 years, 72% males) undergoing RF ablation for PAF. They were followed up in hospital for 2 days post ablation then every week for one month. Subsequent follow-up visits consisted of clinical interview, ECGs, and 24h Holter monitoring every 3 months were done for one year. Extended Holter monitoring was done for patients with palpitations. Any episode of symptomatic or asymptomatic documented atrial tachyarrhythmia > 30 seconds was considered recurrence.

Prevalence of ERAA during first 3 months was 47.2%, while late AF recurrence was 25%. 35% of patients with ERAA had late AF recurrence. ≥ 2 attacks of ERAA during the blanking period had significant diagnostic performance in prediction of late AF with sensitivity 44% and specificity 100% (p value=0.05) and also long procedural time ( with sensitivity 89% and specificity 63% (p value=0.049). Multivariate logistic regression showed that frequent ERAA attacks was the only significant factor that increases the risk of late AF recurrence (p value =0.008, OR= 4.39, 95% CI=1.48-12.99).

ERAA in blanking period may be associated with increased risk for late AF recurrence. Frequent episodes of early recurrences (≥ 2 attacks) is a strong predictor for late AF recurrence. These data should be considered during follow up of the patients with paroxysmal AF after ablation.