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Updated: Jul 6, 2025

Non-fluoroscopic Catheter Tracking for Fluoroscopy Reduction in Interventional Electrophysiology
Published on: May 26, 2015
In symptomatic AF, catheter ablation vs. medical therapy reduced depression and anxiety symptoms at 12 mo
Hironori Ishiguchi1, Gregory Y H Lip1
1University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK (H.I., G.Y.L.).
Insights
Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation significantly reduced psychological distress compared to medical therapy alone. This finding highlights ablation as a beneficial treatment option for improving patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Medicine
- Psychology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia associated with significant psychological distress.
- Current treatments include medical therapy and catheter ablation, but their comparative effects on psychological well-being are not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of catheter ablation versus medical therapy in reducing psychological distress in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Main Methods:
- A randomized clinical trial was conducted comparing catheter ablation to optimal medical therapy.
- Psychological distress was assessed using validated questionnaires at baseline and follow-up intervals.
Main Results:
- Patients undergoing catheter ablation reported a significantly greater reduction in psychological distress compared to those receiving medical therapy.
- Key secondary outcomes related to quality of life and symptom burden also favored the ablation group.
Conclusions:
- Catheter ablation is superior to medical therapy in alleviating psychological distress for patients with atrial fibrillation.
- These findings support considering catheter ablation not only for rhythm control but also for improving the mental health of affected individuals.
Source Citation:
Al-Kaisey AM, Parameswaran R, Bryant C, et al. Atrial fibrillation catheter ablation vs medical therapy and psychological distress: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2023;330:925-933. 37698564.

