Journal of interventional cardiac electrophysiology : an international journal of arrhythmias and pacing
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J Interv Card Electrophysiol · Sep 2011
Comparative StudyProspective comparison between conventional transseptal puncture and transseptal needle puncture with radiofrequency energy.
Patients undergoing left atrial ablation require transseptal puncture, which can be challenging, even for experienced physicians. This study compared the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency (RF) energy transseptal punctures to conventional approach. ⋯ Transseptal needle puncture using RF energy can be performed safely and quickly under imaging guidance.
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J Interv Card Electrophysiol · Sep 2011
Left atrial reservoir function predicts atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation: a two-dimensional speckle strain study.
Predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation (CA) are not fully defined. We hypothesized that 2D left atrial (LA) regional strain maps would help identify abnormal atrial substrate that increases susceptibility to AF recurrence post-CA. ⋯ Regional LA lateral wall LS is a pre-procedural determinant of AFR in patients undergoing CA, independent of LA enlargement. Characterization of atrial myocardial tissue properties by speckle tracking echo may aid the appropriate selection of adjunctive strategies and prognostication of patients undergoing CA.
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J Interv Card Electrophysiol · Sep 2011
Analysis of the left atrial appendage morphology by intracardiac echocardiography in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Detailed information regarding the structure and dimensions of the left atrial appendage (LAA) is required to guide implantation of LAA occlusion devices in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Currently, this procedure is guided by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). ⋯ Imaging of LAA using an ICE probe positioned in the LA results in accurate measurements of LAA dimensions. This imaging modality could potentially be used during implantation of LAA occlusion devices as an alternative to TEE.