Data Indicates Utility of Catheter Cryoablation
Data newly published in the HeartRhythm Journal indicates that catheter cryoablation is an appropriate treatment approach for patients with atrial flutter (AFL). This method is as efficacious as treating patients with radiofrequency catheter ablation and may have a superior side effect profile.
The researchers completed long-term follow up in a cohort of 160 patients, providing data for six months after patients were treated. This was the first multi-center trial to assess the safety and efficacy of this alternative treatment approach.
Researchers from twelve different medical centers recruited patients with cavotricuspid isthmus-dependent AFL. Patients were all treated with catheter-based cryoablation. Follow-up was completed one, three, and six months after therapy. They were also followed weekly and as needed for symptoms.
Assessment of data indicated a treatment success rate of 90.2 percent, with those patients disease-free at six months. The researchers note that these findings validate the use of this treatment approach.
As well, there was a lower incidence of side effects with this approach. Patients experienced less pain with catheter cryoablation compared to radiofrequency catheter ablation. The risks of coagulum formation and heart block were decreased. With this approach, there was no risk of pulmonary vein stenosis.
Radiofrequency catheter ablation is the most commonly used treatment approach for AFL. Cure rates stand around 95 percent. Importantly, this method has noteworthy side effects. Those include endocardial charring and coagulum formation which can result in long-term health consequences.
July 29, 2008 Related topics: New Technology & Innovation, Cardiology