[Evidence-based treatment of atrial fibrillation].
Radiofrequency catheter ablation has emerged as a curative therapy for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation based on studies demonstrating the role of triggering foci in the pulmonary veins for the initiation of atrial fibrillation. Catheter ablation is performed by a trans-septal approach using radiofrequency energy at the ostium of each pulmonary vein. Mapping is guided by special catheters. Sequential radiofrequency applications eliminates or dissociates pulmonary vein muscle activity. Although complications exists, this procedure can be curative for these patients.
Máquez
Manlio F
MF
Departamento de Electrocardiografía y Electrofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Tlalpan, DF México. manliomarquez@yahoo.com
Gómez Flores
Jorge
J
D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000601:surgery*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D011667:Pulmonary Veins / Q000601:surgery*