Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2025
28:13
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
33.4K
Convergent ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation: A UK multicentre perspective
Nilanka N Mannakkara1,2, Ibrar Khan1, Auns Ghazanfar3
1Department of Cardiovascular Services, Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.
Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology
|August 13, 2024
Summary
Convergent ablation, a hybrid cardiothoracic and electrophysiology procedure, shows promise for treating persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) when conventional methods fail. This review explores its evidence and implementation for better AF management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Electrophysiology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmia causing significant morbidity and mortality.
- Persistent AF is often refractory to conventional catheter ablation.
- Convergent ablation offers a novel hybrid approach for complex AF cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale and evidence supporting convergent ablation for persistent AF.
- To discuss the multidisciplinary approach in convergent ablation procedures.
- To outline key factors for establishing a successful convergent ablation service.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on convergent ablation.
- Analysis of outcomes from recent studies on hybrid AF treatments.
- Discussion of procedural aspects and service development.
Main Results:
- Convergent ablation targets both epicardial and endocardial aspects of the atria.
- Recent studies indicate promising efficacy for persistent AF.
- The procedure requires a joint cardiothoracic and electrophysiology team.
Conclusions:
- Convergent ablation represents a significant advancement in treating persistent AF.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for successful implementation.
- Further evaluation and service development are ongoing in the UK.
