A procedure to treat atrial fibrillation may be even more effective than previously demonstrated due to improved technology and modern interventions.
Radiofrequency-based ablation (RF ablation) is the most common form of ablation used to treat atrial fibrillation. The process works by using a catheter to deliver bursts of radiofrequency energy to areas of the heart and creating scar tissue to block abnormal electrical pathways.
The process has proven to be safe and effective in clinical trials, but new data from real-world medical centers indicates even better performance.
In a study published this week in the journal Heart Rhythm, researchers found that RF ablation resulted in over 80% of patients being free from any form of atrial arrhythmias at a one year follow-up period. Nearly 90% of patients also stopped taking anti-arrhythmic drugs as well.
