AF Ablation for Long-standing
Persistent AF
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Long-term data, even in paroxysmal AF, show limited efficacy
In every study a longer duration of continuous AF predicted less
successful outcome
Studies specifically addressing long-standing persistent AF showed
poor results with single procedures, and modest results with multiple
procedures
Long-standing persistent AF is usually associated with a generally
unfavourable patient profile (structural heart disease, heart failure, etc.)
Guidelines provide no (USA) or a very cautious (ESC)
recommendation for ablation of long-standing persistent AF
In most centres catheter ablation is not indicated in long-term persistent AF
When performed the results of the therapy (efficacy and
complications) should be included in registries or clinical trials
Play of Words!