Randomized comparison of encircling and nonencircling left atrial ablation for chronic atrial fibrillation

Nonencircling linear ablation and LA circumferential ablation are equally efficacious in eliminating chronic AF. However, the advantage of nonencircling linear ablation is that it eliminates the need for ablation along the posterior wall of the LA. Therefore, nonencircling linear ablation may avoid the small but real risk of atrioesophageal fistula formation associated with LA circumferential ablation.