Mapping and ablation of post-AF atrial tachycardias

J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2021 Oct;32(10):2830-2844. doi: 10.1111/jce.15047. Epub 2021 Jun 10.

Abstract

Atrial tachycardias are commonly encountered in patients undergoing catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Unlike typical atrial flutter that can be readily recognized and ablated, these post-AF tachycardias can arise from a wide variety of locations and involve a multiplicity of mechanisms. Apart from diagnostic challenges, radiofrequency ablation to eliminate the tachycardias may require multiple approaches. In addition, specialized techniques such as epicardial and chemical ablation may be required for definitive treatment. This review describes the various mechanisms and approaches to mapping and ablation of these challenging tachycardias.

Keywords: clinical: cardiac mapping-3-dimensional systems; clinical: catheter ablation-atrial fibrillation; clinical: catheter ablation-atrial flutter; clinical: catheter ablation-atrial tachycardia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation* / diagnosis
  • Atrial Fibrillation* / surgery
  • Atrial Flutter* / diagnosis
  • Atrial Flutter* / surgery
  • Catheter Ablation* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Tachycardia / surgery
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular* / diagnosis
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular* / etiology
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular* / surgery