Arctic Front Advance Cardiac CryoAblation Catheter is the second generation of the world’s first cryoballoon indicated for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). Building upon the proven safety and efficacy of the original Arctic Front Cryoballoon, this technology provides an efficient approach to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). The original Arctic Front product has a low complication risk and a proven efficacy in treating atrial fibrillation (AF).
Research in Bordeaux, France, by Michel Haïssaguerre, MD, and colleagues, suggested that electrophysiologists didn't need to duplicate the Cox maze lesion set. Dr. Haïssaguerre's group found that over 90% of atrial fibrillation is triggered (starts) in or near the pulmonary veins.
If only we were all made the same it would be easy wouldn't it. The reality is otherwise. With a success rate of 69.9% then 30+% failure rate would suggest otherwise. Yes lots of people have good results after cryo ablation but plenty also need other interventions to tidy up other areas of pathways.
We must also be very wary of thinking of ablation as a "cure" to arrhythmias. For sure QOL is greatly improved but long term results still leave much to be desired. As techniques have improved over the last ten years these statistics are improving but I do remember a French study which claimed that 50% of all ablatees were back in AF within five years. I would still take those odds for any amount of time spent in NSR and drug free.
As you say, ablation isn't a cure but my QOL has changed out of all recognition. My EP told me I may need another ablation in the future but - TOUCH WOOD - 2 years on and not a heartbeat that could be classed as AF so far, just a few ectopics.
I wonder at what stage after an ablation they decide it has been a success. If it's at three or 6 months months then that could be a false success rate, as AF could return later.
Some years ago, Richard Schilling told us at HRC that if after five years, a seven day monitor showed no AF he would call it a cure. I'm now six years but do have some arrhythmias, just not AF these days.
QOL off the scale compared to pre ablation mind you and I would have a fourth if needed.
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Familial Atrial Fibrillation.
Ablation for atrial flutter vs fibrillation
What do experienced members think of this?
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