Hybrid dual stage closed chest ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation

The hybrid ablation (HABL) of atrial fibrillation which combines endoscopic, minimally invasive, closed chest epicardial ablation with endocardial CARTO-guided accuracy was introduced to overcome limitations of current therapeutic options for patients with persistent (PSAF) and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF). The purpose of this single-centre, prospective clinical registry was to evaluate procedural safety and feasibility as well as effectiveness of the HABL in patients with PSAF and LSPAF 1-year post-procedure. From 07.2009 to 12.2014, ninety (n = 90) patients with PSAF (n = 39) and LSPAF (n = 51) underwent HABL. Mean AF duration was 4.5 ± 3.7 years. At 6 months post-procedure 78% patients were in SR. At 12 months post-procedure 86% patients were in SR and 62.3% in SR and of class I/III AADs. These results suggest that combination of epicardial and endocardial RF ablation should be considered as a treatment option for patients with persistent and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation as it is safe and effective in restoring sinus rhythm.