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Abstract Electrical cardioversion (ECV) a widely utilized intervention for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) aimed at restoring sinus rhythm. However, ECV can be ineffective, raising questions about subsequent treatment options. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of non-ablation therapy versus ablation therapy following unsuccessful ECV. A total of 125 consecutive patients with persistent AF who underwent unsuccessful ECV between November 2017 and August 2023 was included in this retrospective analysis. Of these, 51.2% received only medical therapy (non-ablation therapy group, n = 64), while 48.8% underwent AF ablation (ablation therapy group, n = 61). Various ablation methods were employed, including catheter and thoracoscopic ablation. Ablation therapy was associated with significantly better AF-free survival compared to non-ablation therapy [hazard ratio (HR), 0.37; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.22–0.61; p 5 year (HR 1.51; 95% CI 0.930–2.437; p = 0.10), BMI ≤ 25 kg/m2 (HR 1.61; 95% CI 1.004–2.581; p = 0.05) and diabetes (HR 2.38; 95% CI 0.902–6.266; p = 0.08) were considerable as predictor of AF recurrence. Ablation therapy following unsuccessful ECV was associated with maintaining sinus rhythm, regardless of the specific ablation method utilized.

Background We hypothesized that analysis of serial ECGs could predict new‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF) more accurately than analysis of a single ECG by detecting the subtle cardiac remodeling that occurs immediately before AF occurrence. Our aim in this study was to compare the performance of 2 types of machine learning (ML) algorithms. Methods and Results Standard 12‐lead ECGs of patients selected by cardiologists between January 2010 and May 2021 were used for ML model development. Two ML models (single ECG and serial ECG) were developed using a light gradient boosting machine‐learning algorithm. Model performance was evaluated based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and F1 score. We trained the ML models on 415 964 ECGs from 176 090 patients. When testing the 2 ML models using external validation data sets, the performance of the serial‐ML model was significantly better than that of the single‐ML model for predicting new‐onset AF (single‐ versus serial‐ML model: sensitivity 0.744 versus 0.810; specificity 0.742 versus 0.822; accuracy 0.743 versus 0.816; F1 score 0.743 versus 0.815; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.812 versus 0.880; P

BackgroundData on off-label reduced dose risk among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who qualify for a single-dose reduction of apixaban is scarce.ObjectivesWe prospectively assessed apixaban dosing and clinical characteristics in AF patients meeting a dose reduction criterion.MethodsThe multicentre, prospective cohort study, the efficAcy and Safety of aPixaban In REal-world practice in Korean frail patients with AF (ASPIRE), encompasses patients with AF who met the criteria for a single-dose reduction of apixaban and were given varying doses of apixaban, either the on-label standard dose or the off-label reduced dose.ResultsOf 2,000 patients (mean age 74.3 ± 7.9 years, 55.8% women), 29.7% were ≥80 years, 62.6% weighed ≤60 kg, and 7.8% had serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL. Of these, 51.3% were prescribed an off-label reduced dose of apixaban. The off-label group was characterized with older age, more comorbidities, and antiplatelet agents, while the on-label group had more prior strokes. Physicians preferred off-label reduced dose in the “marginal zone,” defined as age 75–80 years, weight 60–65 kg, and creatinine levels 1.2–1.5 mg/dL.ConclusionsIn real-world clinical setting of the Korean population, off-label reduced dose apixaban was administered to nearly half of the patients who qualified for a single dose reduction. This reduced dosage was more commonly prescribed to patients with frail characteristics, while patients with a history of stroke were more often given the standard dose as per the label. A future study is planned to contrast the safety and effectiveness of the standard dose against the reduced dose of apixaban in this population.

Background/Aims Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia and is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is important to identify and control the modifiable risk factors of AF. We aimed to examine the association of exercise capacity with the risk of incident AF within 3 years in healthy subjects. Methods We evaluated asymptomatic adults who had undergone more than two consecutive health checkups. We included subjects who exhibited normal sinus rhythm on the first health examination and who developed AF on the second or subsequent health examinations. Subjects who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing within 3 years before the diagnosis of AF were examined. Results The study population in the analyses included 428 cases (mean age 58.4 ± 7.6 yr, male 95.6%). There were significant differences in maximal systolic blood pressure (SBP; case 169.4 ± 24.2 vs. control 173.9 ± 22.3 mmHg), peak VO2 (29.5 ± 5.4 vs. 30.4 ± 4.8 mL/kg per minute), and maximal metabolic equivalents (METs; 8.5 ± 1.6 vs. 8.7 ± 1.4) between the two groups. In the multivariable logistic models, adjusted odds ratios were 0.99 for maximal SBP (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98–0.99), 0.97 for peak VO2 (95% CI 0.95–0.99), and 0.91 for maximal METs (95% CI 0.83–0.98). Conclusions We demonstrated that poorer exercise capacity was associated with the development of AF in a healthy population. A prospective, systematic trial is necessary to confirm that appropriate exercise training will be beneficial in preventing the development of AF in such patients.

Abstract Background In patients with non-paroxysmal AF (atrial fibrillation), various ablation strategies have been attempted to target non-pulmonary vein (PV) foci or to achieve substrate modification beyond pulmonary vein isolation. The efficacy of empirical ablation of the SVC, one of the most common non-PV foci, is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of additional superior vena cava (SVC) isolation in patients with non-paroxysmal AF undergoing thoracoscopic surgical ablation. Methods/results A total of 191 patients with persistent or long-standing persistent AF was enrolled. All patients underwent total thoracoscopic surgical ablation for AF, and half of them also received empirical SVC isolation. We compared the atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa)-free survival rate and procedure-related complications in the two groups of patients. The 3-year ATa-free survival rate was 53% in the SVC isolation group and 52% in the no-SVC isolation group (p = 0.644). There were no differences between the two groups with respect to AF type or LA size. Procedure-related complications occurred in 12 patients (6%). Pacemakers were implanted only in three patients from the SVC isolation group. The only factor influencing recurrence of ATa was LA diameter. Conclusions Empirical SVC isolation during thoracoscopic ablation for persistent AF did not improve patient outcomes.

Abstract Background The association between bundle branch block (BBB) and recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether AF combined with BBB is associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation. Methods A total of 477 consecutive AF patients who underwent catheter ablation were included. The AF patients were divided into three groups according to BBB: AF without BBB (n = 427), AF with right bundle branch block (AF with RBBB) (n = 16), and AF with intraventricular conduction delay (AF with IVCD) (n = 34). Results Of the 477 AF patients (mean age 57 years, 81% men, median CHA2DS2‐VASc score of 1), 16 (3.4%) patients had RBBB, and 34 (7.1%) patients had IVCD. During a mean follow‐up of 15.2 ± 6.7 months, 119 patients (24.9%) had recurrence of AF. Of these, 111 (26%) patients were in the AF without BBB group, with 2 (12.5%) and 6 (17.6%) patients in the RBBB and IVCD groups, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier estimate of the rate of recurrent AF was not significantly different among the three groups (p = .39). Multivariable analysis showed that persistent AF (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.15–2.50, p = .007), chronic kidney disease (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.20–7.17, p = .01), and left atrial diameter (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.009–1.082, p = .01) were significantly associated with AF recurrence. Conclusion AF with BBB was not significantly associated with the recurrence of AF after catheter ablation in middle‐aged patients with low‐risk cardiovascular profile.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. Totally thoracoscopic ablation (TTA) is a surgical treatment showing a high success rate as a hybrid procedure with radiofrequency catheter ablation to control AF. This study compared the early complications of warfarin and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients who underwent TTA. Methods: This single-center retrospective cohort study enrolled patients who underwent planned TTA for AF from February 2012 to October 2020. All patients received postoperative anticoagulation, either with warfarin or a NOAC (apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, or edoxaban). Propensity score matching was performed for both groups. Early complications were assessed at 12 weeks after TTA and were divided into efficacy and safety outcomes. Both efficacy and safety outcomes were compared in the propensity score-matched groups. Results: Early complications involving efficacy outcomes, such as stroke and transient ischemic attack, were seen in 5 patients in the warfarin group and none in the NOAC group. Although the 2 groups differed in the incidence of efficacy outcomes, it was not statistically significant. In safety outcomes, 11 patients in the warfarin group and 24 patients in the NOAC group had complications, but likewise, the between-group difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Among patients who underwent TTA, those who received NOACs had a lower incidence of thromboembolic complications than those who received warfarin; however, both groups showed a similar bleeding complication rate. Using a NOAC after TTA does not reduce efficacy and safety when compared to warfarin.

Abstract Background An exponential rise in clinical demand for cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) therapy is observed all over the world due to the rapidly expanding lifespan. Accordingly, appropriate lead management including lead extraction is becoming increasingly essential components for the comprehensive care of patients with various CIEDs. Main body With a high success rate and a low complication rate, transvenous lead extraction (TLE) has now been established as first-line therapy for lead extraction. However, TLE is often challenging when there are heavily calcified fibrous adhesions between leads and cardiovascular structures. Recently, rotational mechanical dilator (RMD) sheaths were introduced to resolve this issue and facilitate TLE procedure. There are two types of commercially available RMD sheaths, Evolution® systems and TightRail™. Thorough knowledge of the proper use of the RMD devices is essential to increase success rate and to reduce complications of TLE. In the present review, mechanical features, various techniques, and clinical data of RMD sheaths will be described. Conclusion According to recent advancement of device technology, the clinical outcomes of TLE using the RMD sheaths are continuously improving. However, as the RMD sheath is a potentially aggressive tool, special care should be taken when used in patients with longer lead ages. Author names: Please confirm if the author names are presented accurately and in the correct sequence (given name, family name). Author 2 Given name: Ju Youn, Family name: Kim; Author 4 Given name: Young Keun, Family name: On; Author 5 Given name: June Soo, Family name: Kim. Also, kindly confirm the details in the metadata are correct.All of the author names are correct.

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a well-known, long-term complication of atrial septal defect (ASD) in adults, even after device closure. Left atrial (LA) strain rate applied to the analysis of chamber function has been demonstrated to be an important predictor of LA reverse remodeling. This study aimed to determine the changes in chamber function after device closure of ASD. Methods This prospective study enrolled adults with secundum ASD undergoing transcatheter device closure from December 2016 to August 2017. We analyzed the clinical characteristics and LA strain rate before and six months after ASD closure. Results A total of 11 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 42.6 ± 9.9 years, and six (54.5%) were females. There was no significant change of conventional echocardiographic parameters after ASD closure. The mean global LA reservoir strain rate before ASD closure was 1.17 ± 0.34 and 0.85 ± 0.30 after ASD closure (p = 0.030). The median global LA conduit strain rate was 0.68 (0.42–1.16) and 0.41 (0.16–0.79) before and after ASD closure (p = 0.213), respectively. The mean global LA contractile strain rate at the six-month follow-up showed significant improvement compared with pre-procedural strain rate (0.33 ± 0.65 vs. − 0.43 ± 0.38, p = 0.006). Conclusions LA functional changes occurred during the six-month follow-up, while LA and right atrial (RA) geometric changes were not significant. LA reverse remodeling was proved by restoration of LA late diastolic contractile function.

Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common and increasing cardiac arrhythmia. AF increases thromboembolic events and hospitalizations and deteriorates quality of life. The mechanism of AF is not completely understood. James Cox proposed a concept of Maze procedure in 1987 which was based on a surgical ablation lesion for electrical conduction pathway. Although surgical ablation offers a higher success rate, it should be performed with minimally invasive techniques because of its high invasiveness. Haissaguerre et al. identified potential sources of AF in the pulmonary veins as triggers and developed the percutaneous catheter ablation as the treatment strategy for paroxysmal AF refractory to pharmaceutical therapy. The atrial remodeling occurs electrically and structurally in persistent or longstanding persistent AF, and the catheter ablation and surgical ablation have variable success rates. Persistent or longstanding persistent AF presents a major challenge. Despite continuous improvements, catheter-based procedures have shown relatively far from satisfactory outcomes and may need to be repeated to achieve sinus rhythm. A hybrid approach consisting of the sequential combination of a surgical minimally invasive epicardial ablation and a transvenous catheter endocardial ablation would be an alternative option that supplements the limitations of endo- and epicardial strategies. Close cooperation between cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists for optimal selection of patients and management for arrhythmia recurrence seems suggestible for persistent or longstanding persistent AF.

Abstract It is unclear which factors are associated with progressive sinus node dysfunction after cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter (AFL) ablation. We sought to evaluate the incidence and predictors for permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation after CTI-dependent AFL ablation. Between January 2011 and June 2021, 353 patients underwent CTI-dependent AFL ablation were studied. During a median follow-up of 31.6 months, 30 patients (8.5%) received PPM implantation, 24 for sick sinus syndrome and 6 for atrioventricular block. In multivariable model, prior atrial fibrillation (AF) (HR 3.570; 95% CI 1.034–12.325; P = 0.044), lowest previous sinus heart rate (HR 0.942; 95% CI 0.898–0.988; P = 0.015), and left atrial volume index (LAVI) (HR 1.067; 95% CI 1.024–1.112; P = 0.002) were independently associated with PPM implantation after CTI-dependent AFL ablation. The best cut-off points for predicting PPM implantation were 60.1 ml/m2 for LAVI and 46 beats per minute for lowest previous sinus heart rate. Among the patients discharged without PPM implantation after ablation, sinus pause over three seconds at AFL termination during ablation was an independent predictor of PPM implantation (HR 17.841; 95% CI 4.626–68.807; P

Abstract The need for transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is increasing worldwide including in Asia–Pacific regions. However, supporting evidence for TightRail, a relatively new rotating mechanical dilator sheath, is still lacking in Asian patients. The efficacy and safety of TLE using TightRail performed between March 2018 and June 2021 were evaluated in 86 consecutive patients with 131 leads. The mean lead age was 11.7 ± 7.3 (range, 1.0–41.4) years. Clinical and complete procedural success using TightRail were achieved in 93.0% and 89.5% of 86 patients, respectively, with 6 min of median fluoroscopic time and 9.3% of major complication rate: death (1.2%), cardiac tamponade (3.5%), severe tricuspid regurgitation (3.5%), and stroke (1.2%). However, in 46 patients with longest lead age ≤ 10 years, clinical/complete success and major cardiac complication rates turned out better as 97.8%, 95.7%, and 2.2%, respectively. Additionally, when patients were divided into 3 groups: the first 28, second 29, and the last 29 patients, there was a clear trend toward better efficacy and safety outcomes with more experience with TightRail (Ptrend 10 years was closely associated with TLE-related major cardiac complication (P = 0.046) with 85.7% sensitivity, 57.0% specificity, 15.0% positive predictive value, and 97.8% negative predictive values. In conclusion, TLE using TightRail may be effectively and safely performed by experienced operators for Asian patients with the longest lead age ≤ 10 years. However, as TightRail is a potentially aggressive tool, special attention should be paid to patients with longer lead dwelling times (e.g., > 10 years).

Abstract Background This study aims to investigate the current status of AF (atrial fibrillation) catheter ablation in Korea. Methods The patients who underwent AF catheter ablation from September 2017 to December 2019 were prospectively enrolled from 37 arrhythmia centers. Demographic data, procedural characteristics, the extent of catheter ablation, acute success of the ablation lesion set, rate and independent risk factor for recurrence of AF were analyzed. Results A total of 2402 AF patients [paroxysmal AF (PAF) 45.7%, persistent AF (PeAF) 43.1% and redo AF 11.2%] were included. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was performed in 2378 patients (99%) and acute success rate was 97.9%. Additional non-PV ablation (NPVA) were performed in 1648 patients (68.6%). Post-procedural complication rate was 2.2%. One-year AF-free survival rate was 78.6% and the PeAF patients showed poorer survival rate than the ones with other types (PeAF 72.4%, PAF 84.2%, redo AF 80.0%). Additional NPVA did not influence the recurrence of AF in the PAF patients (PVI 17.0% vs. NPVA 14.6%, P value 0.302). However, it showed lower AF recurrence rate in the PeAF patients (PVI 34.9% vs. NPVA 24.4%, P value 0.001). Valvular heart disease, left atrial diameter, PeAF, PVI alone, need of NPVA for terminating AF, and failed ablation were independent predictors of AF recurrence. Conclusions Additional NPVA was associated better rhythm outcome in the patients with PeAF, not in the ones with PAF. The independent risk factors for AF recurrence in Korean population were similar to previous studies. Further research is needed to discover optimal AF ablation strategy.

Abstract Background To compare the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) between non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), this retrospective study was conducted using the Korean Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (HIRA) claims database. Methods Patients with AF who initiated NOACs (apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban) from July 1, 2015 to November 30, 2016 were included. We applied inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method using propensity score to make weighted populations having similar characteristics between groups. Hazard ratio (HR) of S/SE and MB were estimated by Cox proportional hazard model. Results Of the 39 783 patients with AF, 10 564; 11 418; and 17 801 used apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban, respectively. The mean CHA2DS2‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores were 4.59 ~ 4.69 and 3.58 ~ 3.62, respectively, among all patients after applying IPTW. For S/SE, there were no significant differences between NOACs (HR [95% confidence interval (CI)]): apixaban vs dabigatran (0.99 [0.87‐1.13]), apixaban vs rivaroxaban (0.95 [0.84‐1.07]), and dabigatran vs rivaroxaban (0.96 [0.85‐1.08]). For MB (HR [95% CI]), both apixaban (0.77 [0.68‐0.86]) and dabigatran (0.88 [0.79‐0.98]) had a significantly lower risk compared with rivaroxaban. Apixaban also had a significantly lower risk of MB compared with dabigatran (0.87 [0.76‐0.99]). Conclusions In real‐world practice among Korean AF patients with relatively high risk of stroke and bleeding, there were no significant differences in the risk of S/SE between all NOAC comparisons. Apixaban was associated with lower risk of MB than dabigatran and rivaroxaban.

Objective While greater body mass index (BMI) is associated with increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF), the impact of BMI on outcomes in newly diagnosed AF is unclear. We examine the influence of BMI on outcomes and whether this is modified by sex and evaluate the effect of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with high BMI.Methods GARFIELD-AF is a prospective registry of 52 057 newly diagnosed AF patients. The study population comprised 40 482 participants: 703 underweight (BMI

Background/Aims Atrial fibrillation (AF)-related stroke accounts for 20% of ischemic strokes. Rivaroxaban use in AF patients for preventing stroke and systemic embolism was approved in 2013 in Korea. This study was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of rivaroxaban use in Korean patients with non-valvular AF in a real-world setting. Methods This was an analysis of the Korean patients in Xarelto for Prevention of Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation in Asia-Pacific (XANAP), which was a prospective, observational cohort study including patients with non-valvular AF starting rivaroxaban treatment to prevent stroke or non-central nervous system systemic embolism (non-CNS SE), conducted in 10 Asian countries. Results A total of 844 patients were enrolled in the Korean portion of the XANAP study. In XANAP Korea, the mean age was 70.1 years and 62.6% were males. The mean CHADS2 score was 2.5 and the mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 3.8. 47% of the patients had experienced prior stroke or non-CNS SE or transient ischemic attack. 73.6% of the patients had CHADS2 score ≥ 2. Incidence proportions of 0.8% of the patients (1.1 per 100 patient-years) developed adjudicated treatment-emergent major bleeding. Death was observed in 1.2% of the patients. The incidence of non-major bleeding as well as thromboembolic event were 8.4% (11.6 per 100 patient-years) and 1.5% (2.0 per 100 patient-years), respectively. Conclusions This study reaffirmed the consistent safety profile of rivaroxaban. We found consistent results with overall XANAP population for rivaroxaban in terms of safety in non-valvular AF patients for the prevention of stroke and non-CNS SE.

Abstract Background Cryoballoon ablation is a commonly used approach to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Objectives Report on the safety and efficacy of cryoballoon ablation for the treatment of AF in the largest global cohort of cryoablated patients prospectively studied within a single registry. Methods The Cryo AF Global Registry is a prospective, multi‐center registry. Patients with paroxysmal AF (PAF) or persistent AF (PsAF) were treated with the cryoballoon catheter according to routine practices at 93 sites across 36 countries. Primary efficacy endpoints included freedom from AF and freedom from AF/atrial flutter (AFL)/atrial tachycardia (AT) ≥30 seconds. The primary safety endpoint was serious device‐ or procedure‐related adverse events over 12 month follow‐up. Results During this evaluation window, 2922 subjects completed an index cryoballoon procedure, and 1440 completed 12 month follow‐up. The cohort was 61 ± 12 years of age, 36.3% female, and 78.7% PAF. Serious device‐ and procedure‐related adverse event rates were 1.5% and 3.4%, respectively. Freedom from AF/AFL/AT after the 90 day blanking period was 86.4% (95% CI: 84.3%‐88.3%) in patients with PAF and 70.9% (95% CI: 64.6%‐76.4%) in patients with PsAF. Freedom from AF/AFL/AT in first‐line PAF and PsAF was 90.0% (95% CI: 86.4%‐92.7%) and 72.9% (95% CI: 58.6%‐83.0%) at 12 months, respectively. Conclusions The Cryo Global AF Registry is the largest evaluation to demonstrate cryoablation is an efficient, safe, and effective treatment for patients with AF worldwide. Cryoablation was commonly used to treat patients prior to an AAD failure and may facilitate earlier therapy for patients on the AF disease continuum.

BackgroundSubclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the pathogeneses of embolic stroke. Detection of occult AF and providing proper anticoagulant treatment is an important way to prevent stroke recurrence. The purpose of this study was to determine whether an artificial intelligence (AI) model can assess occult AF using 24-h Holter monitoring during normal sinus rhythm.MethodsThis study is a retrospective cohort study that included those who underwent Holter monitoring. The primary outcome was identifying patients with AF analyzed with an AI model using 24-h Holter monitoring without AF documentation. We trained the AI using a Holter monitor, including supraventricular ectopy (SVE) events (setting 1) and excluding SVE events (setting 2). Additionally, we performed comparisons using the SVE burden recorded in Holter annotation data.ResultsThe area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of setting 1 was 0.85 (0.83–0.87) and that of setting 2 was 0.84 (0.82–0.86). The AUROC of the SVE burden with Holter annotation data was 0.73. According to the diurnal period, the AUROCs for daytime were 0.83 (0.78–0.88) for setting 1 and 0.83 (0.78–0.88) for setting 2, respectively, while those for nighttime were 0.85 (0.82–0.88) for setting 1 and 0.85 (0.80–0.90) for setting 2.ConclusionWe have demonstrated that an AI can identify occult paroxysmal AF using 24-h continuous ambulatory Holter monitoring during sinus rhythm. The performance of our AI model outperformed the use of SVE burden in the Holter exam to identify paroxysmal AF. According to the diurnal period, nighttime recordings showed more favorable performance compared to daytime recordings.

Abstract Aims We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in far‐advanced heart failure (FA‐HF) patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class‐IV status and dependency on intravenous drugs (IVDs) and/or invasive supportive treatments (ISTs). Methods and results Among 305 patients who underwent CRT implantation between October 2005 to December 2019, we identified 17 FA‐HF patients with NYHA class‐IV status and dependency on IVDs (inotropes, diuretics, vasopressors, or vasodilators) and/or ISTs (extracorporeal membranous oxygenator or continuous renal replacement therapy). All patients (median age = 68.7 years, non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy = 15) remained dependent on several IVDs (2.2 ± 1.3 per patient) and/or ISTs for 11.3 ± 7.8 days due to multiple tapering failure (4.3 ± 3.2 per patient) before CRT implantation. However, 14 (82%) patients were successfully weaned from IVDs/ISTs within 5.2 ± 5.3 days following CRT, and 12 (71%) stayed alive for more than 1 year free of ventricular assist device or heart transplantation with symptom improvement (≥1 NYHA class) and a reduced annual HF hospitalization rate (P = 0.002). Considerable improvements in ventricular systolic function (P = 0.004) and volumetric reverse remodelling (P = 0.007) were noticed during the long‐term follow‐up period (35 ± 15 months post‐CRT). The ventricular assist device/heart transplantation/death‐free survival rate post‐CRT was 71% and 65% at 1 and 3 years, respectively. Conclusions Cardiac resynchronization therapy implantation may be a feasible treatment that can offer short‐term and long‐term clinical benefits for NYHA class‐IV FA‐HF patients who are dependent on IVDs/ISTs. When considering treatment options, CRT should not be prematurely excluded solely based on a patient's dependency on IVDs/ISTs without first attempting to identify favourable CRT response factors.

Background: We investigated the impact of previous catheter ablation (CA) on the mid-term outcomes of totally thoracoscopic ablation in patients with lone atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods: Between February 2012 and July 2018, 332 patients underwent totally thora-coscopic ablation for the treatment of AF (persistent AF; n=264, 80%). The patients were stratified into CA (n=47, 14%) and non-CA (nCA; n=285, 86%) groups according to their CA history.Results: All the baseline clinical characteristics and risk factors were similar between the groups except for age, percentage of male patients, prevalence of paroxysmal AF, prior percutaneous coronary intervention, and left atrial volume index (LAVI). No significant in-tergroup differences were observed in the incidence of early and late complications. At late follow-up, normal sinus rhythm was observed in 92% (43 of 47) of the patients in the CA group and 85% (242 of 285) of the patients in the nCA group (p=0.268). The rate of free-dom from AF recurrence at 5 years was 55.3%±11.0% in the CA group, which was similar to that in the nCA group (55.7%±5.1%, p=0.690). In Cox regression analysis, preoperative brain natriuretic peptide levels and LAVI were associated with AF recurrence, but CA his-tory was not significant.Conclusion: Totally thoracoscopic ablation was safe and effective in treating AF irrespec-tive of CA history. A history of CA did not appear to affect the procedural complexity.

Endocardial radiofrequency catheter ablation is considered to be a useful procedure for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. However, catheter ablation has difficulties in achieving successful results in patients with persistent or long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation. Currently, the gold standard is surgical ablation (the Cox maze III procedure). However, because surgical ablation requires a sternotomy and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary bypass and has been associated with surgery-related complications, minimally invasive (totally thoracoscopic) and epicardial-endocardial (hybrid) ablation procedures have been developed. This article reviews the primary surgical and hybrid approaches used to treat persistent or long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation.

Abstract Background Frequent ventricular premature depolarizations (VPDs) can cause reversible cardiomyopathy (CMP). However, many patients maintain a normal left ventricular (LV) function with a high VPD burden. The electrocardiographic characteristics of VPD‐induced CMP have not been elucidated. Methods One hundred and eighty (91 men, age; 51 ± 15 years) patients with frequent idiopathic VPDs (>10% VPDs/day or >10 000 VPDs/day) were studied. All patients underwent successful ablation and were then divided into two groups according to the echocardiographic findings before and after the ablation procedure. Results Group A (n = 139) had a normal LV function with VPD frequencies, and Group B (n = 41) had reversible LV dysfunction after ablation. The VPD QRS duration (QRSd) was wider in patients with CMP (Group A vs Group B; 137.2 ± 12.0 milliseconds vs 159.7 ± 5.3 milliseconds, P

ObjectiveNon-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are proven alternatives to warfarin for preventing stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. We aimed to examine the treatment patterns and patient factors associated with the use of antiplatelet agents, warfarin, and NOACs in clinical practice.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Korean Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service database. Patients receiving antithrombotics were identified before and after the introduction of NOACs (from August 1, 2013 to December 30, 2014 and July 1, 2015 to November 30, 2016, respectively). Patients were included if they were aged ≥18 years, had an atrial fibrillation diagnosis, and had a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2. Treatment pattern was assessed by classifying patients into NOAC, warfarin, or antiplatelet users based on the first date of antithrombotic prescription. Clinical factors associated with the type of antithrombotics chosen were examined using logistic regression analyses.ResultsWe identified 129,465 and 196,243 patients before and after the introduction of NOACs, respectively. The proportion of antiplatelet users was 60.7 and 53.0% before and after the introduction of NOACs, respectively. The proportion of warfarin users was higher in patients with low HAS-BLED score, high CHA2DS2-VASc score, or stroke before the NOAC era. A similar trend was observed for NOAC and warfarin users after the introduction of NOAC. Compared with antiplatelets, warfarin and NOAC uses were significantly associated with CHA2DS2-VASc score and stroke, whereas presence of myocardial infarction (MI) and peripheral arterial disease were significantly associated with antiplatelets prescription. For comparisons between NOAC and warfarin, HAS-BLED and CHA2DS2-VASc scores showed significant associations with NOAC use, whereas comorbidities including MI were significantly associated with warfarin use.ConclusionsThe treatment pattern of antithrombotics did not change with the introduction of NOACs. However, comorbidities served as an important factor in choosing treatment regardless of NOAC entry.

ObjectivesAtrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with an increased ischemic stroke, and the left atrial appendage (LAA) represents the main source of thrombus formation. We evaluated the long-term efficacy of surgical thoracoscopic LAA occlusion during total thoracoscopic ablation of AF to prevent the stroke and anticoagulation strategy after surgery.MethodsPatients who underwent total thoracoscopic ablation for AF, from February 2012 to May 2020, were included; Patients who did not receive LAA occlusion were excluded. We evaluated the development of thromboembolism in these patients.ResultsThe total number of 460 patients [mean age, 57.1 ± 9.2 years; 400 (87.0%) males] were included in the study. The mean follow-up duration was 44.8 months. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 1.9 ± 1.6. Median OAC duration was 109.5 days after the surgery, and the final number of patients who discontinued OAC were 411 (89.3%) in total. Anticoagulation discontinuation rate according to CHA2DS2-VASc score are as follows; (i) 0 = 99.0%; (ii) 1 = 98.2%; and (iii) ≥2 = 81.3%. The annualized incidence rate of ischemic stroke was 0.78%/year, showing a 73% risk reduction compared with the CHA2DS2-VASc predicted rate without anticoagulation. The hazard ratio for ischemic stroke according to previous stroke history was 1.5 [95% confidential interval (CI) 0.3–7.3, p = 0.62], and that of remnant LAA was 5.1 (1.2–20.9, p = 0.02).ConclusionsThoracoscopic LAA occlusion during total thoracoscopic ablation of AF was effective to prevent ischemic stroke. Most patients could discontinue OAC therapy after the procedure. Patients who had a residual trabeculated LAA, or peri-occluder pouch in follow-up CT need to maintain OAC therapy even after LAA occlusion.

BackgroundCryoballoon ablation was established as an effective and safe modality to achieve pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). However, its role in persistent atrial fibrillation (PersAF) remains unclear.ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cryoballoon PVI in PAF and PersAF comparing conventional radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA).MethodsTwo hundred patients undergoing cryoballoon ablation for symptomatic AF were consecutively enrolled in this retrospective study. For comparison, 210 patients undergoing RFCA in the same period were included. The primary outcome was a recurrence of any atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATas) after the index ablation. 12-lead ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring were obtained at 1,3,6 and 9-12 months.ResultsPVI by cryoablation alone was achieved in 197 patients (98.5%). ATas-free survival at 12 months post-ablation was 72.7% in the cryoablation and 80.6% in the RFCA group (P = 0.123), respectively. The cryoablation showed comparable efficacy maintaining sinus rhythm compared with RFCA in PAF (P = 0.539), whereas in PersAF, ATas-free survival was significantly lower in cryoablation (P = 0.039). PV reconnection was observed in the majority of patients (14/16, 87.5%) who receive redo RFCA. Complications were encountered in 10 patients, including femoral arteriovenous fistula (n = 1), transient phrenic nerve palsy (n = 8), and minimal amount pericardial effusion (n = 1).ConclusionThe efficacy of cryoballoon PVI is comparable with conventional RFCA in PAF, whereas PVI alone using cryoballoon may not be insufficient to maintaining sinus rhythm in PersAF. The safety of cryoballlon PVI is tolerable.

Background Heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) often coexist; yet, outcomes of ablation in patients with AF and concomitant HF are limited. This analysis assessed outcomes of cryoablation in patients with AF and HF. Methods and Results The Cryo AF Global Registry is a prospective, multicenter registry of patients with AF who were treated with cryoballoon ablation according to routine practice at 56 sites in 26 countries. Patients with baseline New York Heart Association class I to III (HF cohort) were compared with patients without HF. Freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence ≥30 seconds, safety, and health care utilization over 12‐month follow‐up were analyzed. A total of 1303 patients (318 HF) were included. Patients with HF commonly had preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (81.6%), were more often women (45.6% versus 33.6%) with persistent AF (25.8% versus 14.3%), and had a larger left atrial diameter (4.4±0.9 versus 4.0±0.7 cm). Serious procedure‐related complications occurred in 4.1% of patients with HF and 2.6% of patients without HF (P=0.188). Freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence was not different between cohorts with either paroxysmal AF (84.2% [95% CI, 78.6–88.4] versus 86.8% [95% CI, 84.2–89.0]) or persistent AF (69.6% [95% CI, 58.1–78.5] versus 71.8% [95% CI, 63.2–78.7]) (P=0.319). After ablation, a reduction in AF‐related symptoms and antiarrhythmic drug use was observed in both cohorts (HF and no‐HF), and freedom from repeat ablation was not different between cohorts. Persistent AF and HF predicted a post‐ablation cardiovascular rehospitalization (P=0.032 and P=0.001, respectively). Conclusions Cryoablation to treat patients with AF is similarly effective at 12 months in patients with and without HF. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique Identifier: NCT02752737.

Abstract Background Electrical cardioversion (ECV) is an effective method for restoring sinus rhythm after atrial fibrillation (AF). However, early recurrence of AF occurs in a significant number of patients after ECV. This study aimed to identify electrocardiographic (ECG) predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV. Methods A total of 272 patients with persistent AF undergoing successful ECV were consecutively enrolled in this study. We investigated clinical, echocardiographic, and ECG data. The 12‐lead ECG parameters were measured during sinus rhythm right after ECV using a digital caliper. The early AF recurrence was defined as recurrence within 2 months. Results Of the 272 patients, 165 patients (60.7%) experienced an early AF recurrence. Maximum P‐wave duration (PWD) in limb leads (OR: 1.086; 95% CI: 1.019–1.157; p = .012) and P‐terminal force (PTF) in V1 (OR: 1.019; 95% CI: 1.004–1.033; p = .011) were independent predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV. The optimal cutoff value of the maximum PWD in limb leads for predicting early AF recurrence was 134 ms, characterized by 90.3% sensitivity and 72.0% specificity. Likewise, the optimal cutoff value of PTF in V1 was 50 ms × mm, characterized by 80.0% sensitivity and 64.5% specificity. Conclusion A longer PWD (>134 ms) and a larger PTF (>50 ms × mm) were useful predictors of early recurrence of AF after successful ECV in clinical practice. A more effective rhythm control therapy such as catheter ablation or rate control strategy rather than a repeat ECV should be considered.

Background: Totally thoracoscopic ablation (TTA) is a minimally invasive and safe alternative to radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). It has evolved over the last decades, but data are limited. The aim of this study was to report the long-term efficacy and safety of TTA through a single center experience. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive patients who underwent TTA for AF from February 2012 to December 2018. All patients were followed every 3 months after operation with 12-lead ECG and 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring. The late recurrence of AF was defined as any atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa) sustained more than 30 s from 3 months after surgery. Results: Of the total 408 patients undergoing TTA, 265 were analyzed in this study (17% paroxysmal, persistent or long standing persistent 83%, mean age 56 ± 9 years). During the mean follow-up duration 23 ± 18 months, ATa-free survival rate was 74%, 64%, 58%, 51% and 51% at 1,2,3,4 and 5 years, respectively. At the last follow-up, 75% of patients had sinus rhythm with or without additional intervention. The overall complication rate was 4.5% (12 events) and four patients (1.5%) had a stroke during follow-up. Conclusions: TTA could be effective treatment option for AF. It had a very low risk of complication and could reduce stroke incidence. Further studies are needed to improve treatment strategy.

Abstract Background and objectives The association between thyroid dysfunction and supraventricular tachyarrhythmia (SVT) other than atrial fibrillation (AF) is not well elucidated. We hypothesized that patients with suspected or documented SVT have undetected thyroid dysfunction more frequently than general population. Subjects and methods Patients with symptoms suggestive of SVT other than AF who were planned to undergo an EP study at our center were eligible for this study. Patients with known thyroid disease, medications affecting thyroid function test (TFT) or atrial fibrillation were excluded. The primary outcome was prevalence of TFT abnormalities in the study population. The secondary outcome was prevalence of clinically significant arrhythmia during the EP study. Results A total of 533 patients were analyzed. Patients were divided into the two groups according to TFT results. Fifty-six (10.5%) patients had abnormal TFT results (thyroid dysfunction group), while 477 (89.5%) had normal thyroid function (euthyroidism group). The overall prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 10.5%. The thyroid dysfunction group showed a tendency for higher induction of clinically significant SVT than the euthyroidism group. However, thyroid dysfunction was not an independent predictor of clinically significant SVT during EP study. Conclusion In this study, patients with suspected SVT who were planned for EP study had a relatively high incidence of thyroid dysfunction. Clinically significant arrhythmia tended to be induced more frequently in the thyroid dysfunction group than in the euthyroidism group. Further investigations are needed to verify the clinical implications of TFT in patients with SVT other than AF.

Neurally mediated syncope (NMS) is a common clinical problem. The underlying genetic factors of NMS remain controversial. We hypothesized that cardiac syncope-related genes may contribute to NMS in patients with previous frequent syncopal episodes and/or a family history of syncope. A total of 54 consecutive patients diagnosed with NMS were prospectively enrolled between 2013 and 2016. Inclusion criteria were more than five syncopal episodes with a family history of syncope (n = 17) or more than five syncopal episodes with no family history of syncope (n = 37). Ninety-eight cardiac syncope-related genes (channelopathy: 43 genes, cardiomyopathy: 50 genes, primary pulmonary hypertension: 5 genes) were screened by exome sequencing. All identified variants were classified according to the standards and guidelines by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology. Of the 54 patients, 17 patients (31.5%) had a family history of syncope. Two patients (3.7%) had pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (PV/LPV) in cardiac syncope-related genes TTN and MYH7. We investigated genetic variation in patients with frequent NMS with a positive family history of syncope in Korea. PV/LPVs in genes related to cardiomyopathy were associated with recurrent NMS in Korean patients. Closer follow-up of these patients might be needed.

The disease burden of AF is greater in Asia-Pacific than other areas of the world. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have emerged as effective alternatives to vitamin K antagonists (VKA) for preventing thromboembolic events in patients with AF. The Asian Pacific Society of Cardiology developed this consensus statement to guide physicians in the management of AF in Asian populations. Statements were developed by an expert consensus panel who reviewed the available data from patients in Asia-Pacific. Consensus statements were developed then put to an online vote. The resulting 17 statements provide guidance on the assessment of stroke risk of AF patients in the region, the appropriate use of DOACs in these patients, as well as the concomitant use of DOACs and antiplatelets, and the transition to DOACs from VKAs and vice versa. The periprocedural management of patients on DOAC therapy and the management of patients with bleeding while on DOACs are also discussed.

(1) Background: Limited data exist on the safety and efficacy of epicardial left ventricular (LV) lead placement using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). (2) Methods: Acute and post-discharge outcomes of CRT were compared between patients with epicardial LV leads (Epicardial-LV group, n = 13) and those with endocardial LV leads (Endocardial-LV group, n = 243). (3) Results: Epicardial LV leads were implanted via VATS alone (n = 8) or along with mini-thoracotomy (n = 5), for failed endocardial implantation (n = 11) or recurrent lead dislodgement (n = 2). All epicardial procedures under general anesthesia with one-lung ventilation were successfully completed in 1.0 ± 0.4 h without phrenic nerve stimulation. LV pacing thresholds in the epicardial-LV (1.5 ± 1.0 V) and endocardial-LV (1.3 ± 0.8 V) were comparable (p = 0.651). All patients were discharged alive post-VATS 8.8 ± 3.9 days. During the follow-up (34.3 ± 28.6 months), all patients with epicardial LV leads stayed alive except for one cardiac death post-CRT 14 months and one heart transplantation post-CRT 30 months. All epicardial LV leads maintained stable performance without dislodgement/significant changes in pacing threshold/impedance. LV lead dislodgement occurred only in endocardial-LV (7/243, 2.9%). Efficacy in both groups was comparable in terms of QRS narrowing, increase in LV ejection fraction, and survival free of cardiac death, or heart-failure-related hospitalization. (4) Conclusions: Epicardial LV lead placement using VATS can be a safe and effective alternative to endocardial implantation, with comparable acute and post-discharge outcomes achieved by both approaches.

Background and Objectives: Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) and totally thoracoscopic surgical ablation (TTA) have emerged as alternatives to radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation. In this study, we describe our experience comparing patient characteristics and outcomes of RFCA, CBA, and TTA. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who underwent RFCA, CBA, or TTA. Both atrial fibrillation (AF)- and atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa)-free survival rates were compared using time to recurrence after a 3-month blanking period (defined by a duration of more than 30 s). All patients were regularly followed using 12-lead ECGs or Holter ECG monitoring. Results: Of 354 patients in this study, 125 underwent RFCA, 97 underwent CBA and 131 underwent TTA. The TTA group had more patients with persistent AF, a larger LA diameter, and a history of stroke. The CBA group showed the shortest procedure time (p < 0.001). The CBA group showed significantly lower AF-free survival at 12 months than the RFCA and TTA groups (RFCA 84%, CBA 74% and TTA 85%, p = 0.071; p = 0.859 for TTA vs. RFCA, p = 0.038 for RFCA vs. CBA and p = 0.046 for TTA vs. CBA). There were no significant differences in ATa-free survival among the three groups (p = 0.270). There were no procedure-related adverse events in the RFCA group, but some complications occurred in the CBA group and the TTA group (6% and 5%, respectively). Conclusions: RFCA and CBA are effective and safe as first-line treatments for paroxysmal and persistent AF. In some high-risk stroke patients, TTA may be a viable option. It is important to consider patient characteristics when selecting an ablation method for AF.

Background: The absence of atrial contraction (AC) after the maze procedure has been reported to cause subsequent annular dilatation and to increase the risk of embolic stroke. We hypothesized that the lack of AC could increase the risk of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation in patients undergoing the maze procedure. Methods: In 376 consecutive patients who had undergone a cryo-maze procedure and combined valve operation, recovery of AC was assessed at baseline and at immediate (≤2 weeks), early (≤1 year, 4.6±3.8 months), and late (＞1 year, 3.5±1.1 years) postoperative stages. Results: With a median follow-up of 53 months, 10 patients underwent PPM implantation. Seven PPM implants were for sinus node dysfunction (pauses of 9.6±2.4 seconds), one was for marked sinus bradycardia, and two were for advanced/complete atrioventricular block. The median (interquartile range) time to PPM implantation was 13.8 (0.5–68.2) months. Our time-varying covariate Cox models showed that the absence of AC was a risk factor for PPM implantation (hazard ratio, 11.92; 95% confidence interval, 2.52 to 56.45; p=0.002). Conclusion: The absence of AC may be associated with a subsequent risk of PPM implantation.

BackgroundAlthough randomized trials provide a high level of evidence regarding the efficacy of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs), the results of such trials may differ from those observed in day-to-day clinical practice.AimsTo compare the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) between NOAC and warfarin in clinical practice.MethodsPatients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) who started warfarin/NOACs between January 2015 and November 2016 were retrospectively identified from Korea's nationwide health insurance claims database. Using inpatient diagnosis and imaging records, the Cox models with inverse probability of treatment weighting using propensity scores were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for NOACs relative to warfarin.ResultsOf the 48,389 patients, 10,548, 11,414, 17,779 and 8,648 were administered apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin, respectively. Many patients had suffered prior strokes (36.7%, 37.7%, 31.4%, and 32.2% in apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and warfarin group, respectively), exhibited high CHA2DS2-VASc (4.8, 4.6, 4.6, and 4.1 in apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and warfarin group, respectively) and HAS-BLED (3.7, 3.6, 3.6, and 3.3 in apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and warfarin group, respectively) scores, had received antiplatelet therapy (75.4%, 75.7%, 76.8%, and 70.1% in apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and warfarin group, respectively), or were administered reduced doses of NOACs (49.8%, 52.9%, and 42.8% in apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban group, respectively). Apixaban, dabigatran and rivaroxaban showed a significantly lower S/SE risk [HR, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.62, 0.54-0.71; 0.60, 0.53-0.69; and 0.71, 0.56-0.88, respectively] than warfarin. Apixaban and dabigatran (HR, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.51-0.66 and 0.75, 0.60-0.95, respectively), but not rivaroxaban (HR, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.69-1.04), showed a significantly lower MB risk than warfarin.ConclusionsAmong Asian patients who were associated with higher bleeding risk, low adherence, and receiving reduced NOAC dose than that provided in randomised controlled trials, all NOACs were associated with a significantly lower S/SE risk and apixaban and dabigatran with a significantly lower MB risk than warfarin.

Temporary pacemakers (TPMs) are usually inserted in an emergency situation. However, there are few reports available regarding which route of access is best or what the most preferred approach is currently in tertiary hospitals. This study aimed to compare procedure times, complication rates, and indications for temporary pacing between the transjugular and transfemoral approaches to TPM placement. We analyzed consecutive patients who underwent TPM placement. Indications; procedure times; and rates of complications including localized infection, any bleeding, and pacing wire repositioning rates were analyzed. A total of 732 patients (361 treated via the transjugular approach and 371 treated via the transfemoral approach) were included. Complete atrioventricular block was the most common cause of TPM placement in both groups, but sick sinus syndrome was especially common in the transjugular approach group. Separately, procedure time was significantly shorter in the transjugular approach group (9.0 ± 8.0 minutes vs. 11.9 ± 9.7 minutes; P < 0.001). Overall complication rates were not significantly different between the two groups, and longer duration of temporary pacing was a risk factor for repositioning. The risk of reposition was significantly increased when the temporary pacing was continued more than 5 days and 3 days in the transjugular approach group and the transfemoral approach group, respectively. The transjugular approach should be considered if the TPM is required for more than 3 days.

ObjectiveCatheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is still challenging, no optimal extra-pulmonary vein lesion set is known. We previously reported the clinical feasibility of computational modeling-guided AF catheter ablation.MethodsWe randomly assigned 118 patients with persistent AF (77.8% men, age 60.8 ± 9.9 years) to the computational modeling-guided ablation group (53 patients) and the empirical ablation group (55 patients) based on the operators’ experience. For virtual ablation, four virtual linear and one electrogram-guided lesion sets were tested on patient heart computed tomogram-based models, and the lesion set with the fastest termination time was reported to the operator in the modeling-guided ablation group. The primary outcome was freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias lasting longer than 30 s after a single procedure.ResultsDuring 31.5 ± 9.4 months, virtual ablation procedures were available in 95.2% of the patients (108/118). Clinical recurrence rate was significantly lower after a modeling-guided ablation than after an empirical ablation (20.8 vs. 40.0%, log-rank p = 0.042). Modeling-guided ablation was independently associated with a better long-term rhythm outcome of persistent AF ablation (HR = 0.29 [0.12–0.69], p = 0.005). The rhythm outcome of the modeling-guided ablation showed better trends in males, non-obese patients with a less remodeled atrium (left atrial dimension < 50 mm), ejection fraction ≥ 50%, and those without hypertension or diabetes (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the groups for the total procedure time (p = 0.403), ablation time (p = 0.510), and major complication rate (p = 0.900).ConclusionAmong patients with persistent AF, the computational modeling-guided ablation was superior to the empirical catheter ablation regarding the rhythm outcome.Clinical Trial RegistrationThis study was registered with the ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02171364.

It remains unclear as to whether cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) would be as effective in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) accompanied by slow ventricular response (AF-SVR, < 60 beats/min) as in those with sinus rhythm (SR). Echocardiographic reverse remodeling was compared between AF-SVR patients (n = 17) and those with SR (n = 88) at six months and 12 months after CRT treatment. We also evaluated the changes in QRS duration; New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class; and long-term composite clinical outcomes including cardiac death, heart transplantation, and heart failure (HF)-related hospitalization. Left ventricular pacing sites and biventricular pacing percentages were not significantly different between the AF-SVR and SR groups. However, heart rate increase after CRT was significantly greater in the AF-SVR group than in the SR group (P < 0.001). At six and 12 months postoperation, both groups showed a comparable improvement in NYHA class; QRS narrowing; and echocardiographic variables including left ventricular end-systolic volume, left ventricular ejection fraction, and left atrial volume index. Over the median follow-up duration of 1.6 (interquartile range: 0.8-2.2) years, no significant between-group differences were observed regarding the rates of long-term composite clinical events (35% versus 24%; hazard ratio: 1.71; 95% confidence interval: 0.23-12.48; P = 0.60). CRT implantation provided comparable beneficial effects for patients with AF-SVR as compared with those with SR, by correcting electrical dyssynchrony and increasing biventricular pacing rate, in terms of QRS narrowing, symptom improvement, ventricular reverse remodeling, and long-term clinical outcomes.

The relative efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) after electrical cardioversion are not well established. This study aimed to investigate the efficacies of different AADs for maintaining sinus rhythm (SR) after electrical cardioversion for atrial fibrillation (AF). We selected patients from a retrospective registry including patients admitted for cardioversion between January 2012 and June 2016. The primary outcome was time to AF recurrence during the first year after cardioversion. The secondary outcomes included AF recurrence within 1 month, and first readmission due to heart failure, stroke, or additional non-pharmacological rhythm control. A total of 265 patients were divided into the 4 groups according to AAD type: flecainide (n = 33), propafenone (n = 64), amiodarone (n = 128), and dronedarone (n = 40). During the first year after cardioversion, the AF recurrence-free survival was similar between all AAD groups (69.7% vs. 67.2% vs. 71.9% vs. 80.0%, p = 0.439). About half of all recurrences occurred during the first month. There was no difference in any of the secondary outcomes, although the amiodarone group showed a trend toward more non-pharmacological rhythm control. AAD type was not associated with recurrence in multivariate analysis. In this study, half of all patients received amiodarone after electrical cardioversion. Flecainide, propafenone, amiodarone, and dronedarone showed similar efficacies for maintaining SR after electrical cardioversion. Thus, it might be reasonable to reconsider amiodarone use after cardioversion, since it did not show superior efficacy to the other drugs considered and is associated with potential side effects.

The treatment effect of the hybrid procedure, consisting of a thoracoscopic ablation followed by an endocardial radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA), is unclear. A total of 117 ablation-naïve patients who underwent either the staged hybrid procedure (n = 72) or RFCA alone (n = 105) for drug-refractory, non-valvular persistent or long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) were enrolled. The primary outcome is occurrence of total atrial arrhythmia, defined as a composite of AF, sustained atrial tachycardia (AT), and atypical atrial flutter (AFL) after index procedure. The mean age was 52.7 years. Eighty-four percentage of the patients were male. Patients with prior history of stroke and long-standing persistent AF were more prevalent in the hybrid group than RFCA group. The left atrial volume index was larger in the hybrid group (P

Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) can cause sudden cardiac death. Previous studies have reported that J waves and fragmented QRS complexes (f-QRS) are arrhythmogenic markers and predictors of cardiac events. We evaluated the prevalence and clinical significance of J waves and f-QRS in patients with IVF.We studied 81 patients who received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) due to IVF between October 1999 and June 2015. We assessed the prevalence of J waves and f-QRS using electrocardiograms (ECGs). Patients were classified into three groups: J wave group (n = 35), f-QRS group (n = 20), or normal ECG group (n = 26). The control group included 81 subjects without heart disease who were matched for age, sex, and race. We compared syncope, sudden cardiac arrest, and appropriate ICD shock between the three groups.The follow-up duration was 4.1 years. J waves and f-QRS were more frequent in patients with IVF than in control subjects (43.2%, 21% vs. 24.7%, 19.7%, P < 0.001). Out of the three groups, clinical cardiac events were most frequent in the f-QRS group (50% vs. 45.7% vs. 11.5%, P = 0.028). A comparison of the combined group of J wave and f-QRS versus the normal ECG group revealed that the combined group had a higher frequency of clinical cardiac events than the normal ECG group (47.3% vs. 11.5%, respectively, P = 0.009).Patients with IVF had higher prevalence of f-QRS or J waves. And patients with f-QRS or J waves were at higher risk of recurrent ventricular fibrillation.

Objective: Radiofrequency catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) still has a substantial recurrence rate. This study aims to investigate whether an AF ablation lesion set chosen using in-silico ablation (V-ABL) is clinically feasible and more effective than an empirically chosen ablation lesion set (Em-ABL) in patients with PeAF.Methods: We prospectively included 108 patients with antiarrhythmic drug-resistant PeAF (77.8% men, age 60.8 ± 9.9 years), and randomly assigned them to the V-ABL (n = 53) and Em-ABL (n = 55) groups. Five different in-silico ablation lesion sets [1 pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), 3 linear ablations, and 1 electrogram-guided ablation] were compared using heart-CT integrated AF modeling. We evaluated the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of V-ABL compared with that of Em-ABL.Results: The pre-procedural computing time for five different ablation strategies was 166 ± 11 min. In the Em-ABL group, the earliest terminating blinded in-silico lesion set matched with the Em-ABL lesion set in 21.8%. V-ABL was not inferior to Em-ABL in terms of procedure time (p = 0.403), ablation time (p = 0.510), and major complication rate (p = 0.900). During 12.6 ± 3.8 months of follow-up, the clinical recurrence rate was 14.0% in the V-ABL group and 18.9% in the Em-ABL group (p = 0.538). In Em-ABL group, clinical recurrence rate was significantly lower after PVI+posterior box+anterior linear ablation, which showed the most frequent termination during in-silico ablation (log-rank p = 0.027).Conclusions: V-ABL was feasible in clinical practice, not inferior to Em-ABL, and predicts the most effective ablation lesion set in patients who underwent PeAF ablation.

Brugada syndrome is a rare channelopathy associated with the SCN5A gene that causes fatal ventricular arrhythmias. This case of Brugada syndrome, in which ventricular tachycardia (VT) was provoked by high fever, is the first report in a Korean child. The boy had retinoblastoma of his left eye diagnosed at 16 months of age. After chemotherapy, he contracted a catheter-related infection with a high fever up to 41℃ leading to monomorphic VT. This was characterized as having right bundle branch block morphology, superior axis deviation, and a heart rate of 212/min. Direct current cardioversion recovered the VT to sinus rhythm after a lack of response to amiodarone and lidocaine. A second attack of VT that was not controlled by cardioversion, however, responded to lidocaine. The baseline electrocardiogram showed a long PR interval and QRS duration, and the patient's grandfather had a history of Brugada syndrome. A mutation in SCN5A was identified in this patient, his father, and his grandfather. The patient was treated with quinidine and followed up for 1 year.