Heart rhythm : the official journal of the Heart Rhythm Society
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Comparative Study
Value of the signal-averaged electrocardiogram in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) is an inherited disease that causes structural and functional abnormalities of the right ventricle (RV). The presence of late potentials as assessed by the signal-averaged electrocardiogram (SAECG) is a minor task force criterion. ⋯ Using 1 of 3 SAECG criteria contributed to increased sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of ARVC/D. This finding is incorporated in the recent modification of the task force criteria.
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Atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of embolic events. The left atrial appendage (LAA) is believed to be an incubator for thrombus formation. LAA exclusion has been advocated to potentially reduce embolic events arising from the LAA. ⋯ Catheter-based surgical suture ligation of the LAA is feasible in humans. This novel catheter approach may be appropriate for patients with atrial fibrillation who are ineligible for anticoagulation therapy. Further investigation is needed to demonstrate the long-term safety and efficacy of LAA closure.
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Cryoballoon ablation has emerged as a novel treatment strategy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). ⋯ Differences in the extent of myocardial injury and patterns of PV reconnection were observed between cryoballoon ablation and RF ablation of paroxysmal AF.