Catheter ablation of atrial flutter using radiofrequency current: cumulative experience in 61 patients

We present our experience with radiofrequency catheter ablation of common atrial flutter.

Radiofrequency ablation of atrial flutter was performed utilizing percutaneous techniques and the anatomic approach under conscious sedation or general anesthesia.

Sixty-one consecutive patients (51 men, and 10 women) aged 59 +/- 12 years with medically refractory atrial flutter underwent catheter ablation. Thirty-eight patients (62%) had structural heart disease, including complex congenital anomalies in one patient. Atrial flutter ablation was successfully accomplished in 55 patients (90%) in one session. There were no complications, and all patients were discharged within 24-hours of the procedure. During a mean follow-up of 10 +/- 9 months, recurrent atrial flutter occurred in 11 patients (18%), eight of which successfully underwent repeat atrial flutter ablation.

Catheter ablation of atrial flutter using radiofrequency current is safe and has a high success rate. This nonpharmacologic approach should be considered as the first line of therapy for common atrial flutter prior to the institution of antiarrhythmic drugs.