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AIMS: Radiofrequency (RF) ablation for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with the risk of oesophageal thermal injury (ETI). Higher power short duration (HPSD) ablation results in preferential local resistive heating over distal conductive heating. Although HPSD has become increasingly common, no randomized study has compared ETI risk with conventional lower power longer duration (LPLD) ablation. This study aims to compare HPSD vs. LPLD ablation on ETI risk. METHODS AND RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients were randomized 1:1 to HPSD or LPLD posterior wall (PW) ablation. Posterior wall ablation was 40 W (HPSD group) or 25 W (LPLD group), with target AI (ablation index) 400/LSI (lesion size index) 4. Anterior wall ablation was 40-50 W, with a target AI 500-550/LSI 5-5.5. Endoscopy was performed on Day 1. The primary endpoint was ETI incidence. The mean age was 61 ± 9 years (31% females). The incidence of ETI (superficial ulcers n = 4) was 4.5%, with equal occurrence in HPSD and LPLD (P = 1.0). There was no difference in the median value of maximal oesophageal temperature (HPSD 38.6°C vs. LPLD 38.7°C, P = 0.43), or the median number of lesions per patient with temperature rise above 39°C (HPSD 1.5 vs. LPLD 2, P = 0.93). Radiofrequency ablation time (23.8 vs. 29.7 min, P < 0.01), PVI duration (46.5 vs. 59 min, P = 0.01), and procedure duration (133 vs. 150 min, P = 0.05) were reduced in HPSD. After a median follow-up of 12 months, AF recurrence was lower in HPSD (15.9% vs. LPLD 34.1%; hazard ratio 0.42, log-rank P = 0.04). CONCLUSION: Higher power short duration ablation was associated with similarly low rates of ETI and shorter total/PVI RF ablation times when compared with LPLD ablation. Higher power short duration ablation is a safe and efficacious approach to PVI.

Background: The success of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is reduced in persistent AF (PsAF) compared to paroxysmal AF. Adjunctive ablation strategies have failed to show consistent incremental benefit over PVI alone in randomized studies. The left atrial posterior wall is a potential source of non-PV triggers and atrial substrate which may promote the initiation and maintenance of PsAF. Adding posterior wall isolation (PWI) to PVI had shown conflicting outcomes, with earlier studies confounded by methodological limitations. Objective(s): To determine whether combining PWI with PVI significantly improves freedom from AF recurrence, compared to PVI alone, in patients with PsAF. Method(s): This is a multi-center, prospective, international randomized clinical trial. 338 patients with symptomatic PsAF refractory to anti-arrhythmic therapy (AAD) will be randomized to either PVI alone or PVI with PWI in a 1:1 ratio. PVI involves wide antral circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, utilizing contact force sensing ablation catheters. PWI involves the creation of a floor line connecting the inferior aspect of the PVs, and a roof line connecting the superior aspect of the PVs. Follow up is for a minimum of 12 months with rhythm monitoring via implantable cardiac device and/or loop monitor, or frequent intermittent monitoring with an ECG device. The primary outcome is freedom from any documented atrial arrhythmia of > 30 seconds off AAD at 12 months, after a single ablation procedure. Conclusion(s): This randomized study aims to determine the success and safety of adjunctive PWI to PVI in patients with persistent AF.Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc.

Objectives: This study sought to describe expected changes in a mirror-image prone electrocardiogram (ECG) compared with normal supine, including a range of cardiac conditions. Background(s): Unwell COVID-19 patients are at risk of cardiac complications. Prone ventilation is recommended but poses practical challenges to acquisition of a 12-lead ECG. The effects of prone positioning on the ECG remain unknown. Method(s): 100 patients each underwent 3 ECGs: standard supine front (SF); prone position with precordial leads attached to front (PF); and prone with precordial leads attached to back in a mirror image to front (PB). Result(s): Prone positioning was associated with QTc prolongation (PF 437 +/- 32 ms vs. SF 432 +/- 31 ms; p < 0.01; PB 436 +/- 34 ms vs. SF 432 +/- 31 ms; p = 0.02). In leads V1 to V3 on PB ECG, a qR morphology was present in 90% and changes in T-wave polarity in 84%. In patients with anterior ischemia, ST-segment changes in V1 to V3 on supine ECG were no longer visible on PB in 100% and replaced by an R-wave in V1. Bundle branch block (BBB) remained detectable in 100% on PB, with left BBB appearing as right BBB on PB in 71% and QRS narrowing with qR in V1 for right BBB. ST-segment/T-wave changes in limb leads and arrhythmia detection were largely unaffected in PB. Conclusion(s): As expected, the PB ECG is unreliable for the detection of anterior myocardial injury but remains useful for ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities in limb leads, BBB detection, and rhythm monitoring. The prone ECG is a useful screening tool with diagnostic utility in COVID-19 patients who require prone ventilation.Copyright © 2021 American College of Cardiology Foundation

Objectives: This study sought to report P-wave morphology (PWM) from a series of paraseptal (PS) atrial tachycardia (AT), revise then prospectively evaluate a simplified PWM algorithm against a contemporary consecutive cohort with focal AT. Background(s): The 2006 PWM algorithm was useful in predicting the origin of focal AT. An updated algorithm was developed given advances in multipolar 3-dimensional mapping, potential limitations of PWM in separating PS sites, and a renewed interest in the P-wave in mapping non-pulmonary vein triggers. Method(s): The PWM from a consecutive series of 67 patients with PS AT were analyzed. PS sites included were coronary sinus ostium, perinodal, left and right septum, septal tricuspid annulus, superior mitral annulus, and noncoronary cusp. Next the P-wave algorithm was revised and prospectively evaluated by 3 blinded assessors. Result(s): The P-wave for PS sites was neg/pos (n = 50), iso/pos (n = 10), or isoelectric (n = 4) in lead V1 (96%). The P-wave algorithm was modified and prospectively applied to 30 consecutive patients with focal AT who underwent successful ablation. Foci (n = 30) originated from the right atrium (33.3%), left atrium (30%), and PS (36.7%). Using the PW algorithm, the correct anatomic location was identified in 93%. Incorrect interpretation of the terminal positive P-wave component (n = 3) and initial negative P-wave deflection (n = 1) in lead V1 misidentified 4 paraseptal cases. Conclusion(s): The revised PWM algorithm offers a simplified and accurate method of localizing the responsible site for focal AT. The P-wave remains an important first step in mapping atrial arrhythmias.Copyright © 2021 American College of Cardiology Foundation

Objectives: This study sought to determine the long-term outcomes of restoring sinus rhythm with catheter ablation (CA). Background(s): The CAMERA-MRI (Catheter Ablation Versus Medical Rate Control in Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure-An MRI-Guided Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial) study demonstrated that restoration of sinus rhythm with CA significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) compared with medical rate control (MRC) at 6 months in persistent atrial fibrillation and otherwise unexplained systolic heart failure. However, the long-term outcomes have not been reported. Method(s): Patients enrolled in the CAMERA-MRI study were followed for 4 years with echocardiogram and cardiac magnetic resonance. CA involved pulmonary vein isolation and posterior left atrial wall isolation in 94%. Patients crossed over to CA after 6-month study duration. Arrhythmia burden was determined with implanted cardiac monitors or cardiac devices. Result(s): Sixty-six patients (age 62 +/- 10 years, atrial fibrillation duration of 22 +/- 16 months, and LVEF 33 +/- 9%) were randomized 1:1 to CA versus MRC. Eighteen of 33 patients crossed over from MRC group to CA group. At 4.0 +/- 0.9 years, atrial fibrillation recurred in 27 patients (57%) in the CA group with a mean burden of 10.6 +/- 21.2% after 1.4 +/- 0.6 procedures. There was an absolute increase in LVEF with CA of 16.4 +/- 13.3% compared with 8.6 +/- 7.6% in MRC (p = 0.001). In the CA group, the absence of ventricular late gadolinium enhancement was associated with a greater improvement in absolute LVEF (19 +/- 13% vs. 10 +/- 11% in the late gadolinium enhancement-positive group; p = 0.04) and LVEF normalization in 19 patients (58%) versus 4 patients (18%) in the late gadolinium enhancement-positive group (p = 0.008) at 4.0 +/- 0.9 years follow-up. Conclusion(s): CA is superior to MRC in improving LVEF in the long term in patients with atrial fibrillation and systolic heart failure. The greatest recov

BACKGROUND: The success of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is reduced in persistent AF (PsAF) compared to paroxysmal AF. Adjunctive ablation strategies have failed to show consistent incremental benefit over PVI alone in randomised studies. The left atrial posterior wall is a potential source of non-PV triggers and atrial substrate which may promote the initiation and maintenance of PsAF. Adding posterior wall isolation (PWI) to PVI had shown conflicting outcomes, with earlier studies confounded by methodological limitations. OBJECTIVE(S): To determine whether combining PWI with PVI significantly improves freedom from AF recurrence, compared to PVI alone, in patients with PsAF. METHOD(S): This is a multi-centre, prospective, international randomised clinical trial. 338 patients with symptomatic PsAF refractory to anti-arrhythmic therapy (AAD) will be randomised to either PVI alone or PVI with PWI in a 1:1 ratio. PVI involves wide antral circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, utilising contact force sensing ablation catheters. PWI involves the creation of a floor line connecting the inferior aspect of the PVs, and a roof line connecting the superior aspect of the PVs. Follow up is for a minimum of 12 months with rhythm monitoring via implantable cardiac device/ loop monitor, or frequent intermittent monitoring with an ECG device. The primary outcome is freedom from any documented atrial arrhythmia of > 30 seconds off AAD at 12 months, after a single ablation procedure. CONCLUSION(S): This randomised study aims to determine the success and safety of adjunctive PWI to PVI in patients with persistent AF.Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to describe expected changes in a mirror-image prone electrocardiogram (ECG) compared with normal supine, including a range of cardiac conditions. BACKGROUND: Unwell COVID-19 patients are at risk of cardiac complications. Prone ventilation is recommended but poses practical challenges to acquisition of a 12-lead ECG. The effects of prone positioning on the ECG remain unknown. METHOD(S): 100 patients each underwent 3 ECGs: standard supine front (SF); prone position with precordial leads attached to front (PF); and prone with precordial leads attached to back in a mirror image to front (PB). RESULT(S): Prone positioning was associated with QTc prolongation (PF 437 +/- 32 ms vs. SF 432 +/- 31 ms; p < 0.01; PB 436 +/- 34 ms vs. SF 432 +/- 31 ms; p = 0.02). In leads V1 to V3 on PB ECG, a qR morphology was present in 90% and changes in T-wave polarity in 84%. In patients with anterior ischemia, ST-segment changes in V1 to V3 on supine ECG were no longer visible on PB in 100% and replaced by an R wave in V1. Bundle branch block (BBB) remained detectable in 100% on PB, with left BBB appearing as right BBB on PB in 71% and QRS narrowing with qR in V1 for right BBB. ST-segment/T-wave changes in limb leads and arrhythmia detection were largely unaffected in PB. CONCLUSION(S): As expected, the PB ECG is unreliable for the detection of anterior myocardial injury but remains useful for ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities in limb leads, BBB detection, and rhythm monitoring. The prone ECG is a useful screening tool with diagnostic utility in COVID-19 patients who require prone ventilation.Copyright © 2021 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to report P-wave morphology (PWM) from a series of paraseptal (PS) atrial tachycardia (AT), revise then prospectively evaluate a simplified PWM algorithm against a contemporary consecutive cohort with focal AT. BACKGROUND: The 2006 PWM algorithm was useful in predicting the origin of focal AT. An updated algorithm was developed given advances in multipolar 3-dimensional mapping, potential limitations of PWM in separating PS sites, and a renewed interest in the P-wave in mapping non-pulmonary vein triggers. METHOD(S): The PWM from a consecutive series of 67 patients with PS AT were analyzed. PS sites included were coronary sinus ostium, perinodal, left and right septum, septal tricuspid annulus, superior mitral annulus, and noncoronary cusp. Next the P-wave algorithm was revised and prospectively evaluated by 3 blinded assessors. RESULT(S): The P-wave for PS sites was neg/pos (n = 50), iso/pos (n = 10), or isoelectric (n = 4) in lead V1 (96%). The P-wave algorithm was modified and prospectively applied to 30 consecutive patients with focal AT who underwent successful ablation. Foci (n = 30) originated from the right atrium (33.3%), left atrium (30%), and PS (36.7%). Using the PW algorithm, the correct anatomic location was identified in 93%. Incorrect interpretation of the terminal positive P-wave component (n = 3) and initial negative P-wave deflection (n = 1) in lead V1 misidentified 4 paraseptal cases. CONCLUSION(S): The revised PWM algorithm offers a simplified and accurate method of localizing the responsible site for focal AT. The P-wave remains an important first step in mapping atrial arrhythmias.Copyright © 2021 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

BACKGROUND: Catheter ablation is highly effective for atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT). Generally junctional rhythm (JR) is an accepted requirement for successful ablation however there is a lack of detailed prospective studies to determine the characteristics of JR and the impact on slow pathway conduction. METHODS: Multicentre prospective observational study evaluating the impact of individual radiofrequency (RF) applications in typical AVNRT (slow/fast). Characteristics of JR during ablation were documented and detailed testing was performed after every RF application to determine outcome. Procedural success was defined as ≤1 AV nodal echo. RESULTS: Sixty-seven patients were included (mean age 53 ± 18years, 57% female and a history of SVT 2.9 ± 4.7 years). RF (50w, 60°) ablation for AVNRT was applied in 301 locations with JR in 178 (59%). Successful slow pathway modification was achieved in 66 (99%) patients with slow pathway block in 30 (46%). Success was associated with JR in all patients. Success was achieved in six patients with RF < 10 s. There was no significant difference in the CL of JR during RF between effective (587 ± 150 ms) versus ineffective (611 ± 193 ms, p = .4) applications. Inadvertent junctional beat-atrial (JA) block with immediate termination of RF was observed in 19 (28%) patients with AVNRT no longer inducible in 14 (74%). Freedom from SVT was achieved in 66 (99%) patients at a mean follow up of 15 ± 6 months. CONCLUSION: In this prospective study, JR was required during RF for acute success in AVNRT. Cycle length of JR during RF was not predictive of success. Although unintended JA block during faster JR was associated with slow pathway block, this is a precursor to fast pathway block and should not be intentionally targeted.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to describe expected changes in a mirror-image prone electrocardiogram (ECG) compared with normal supine, including a range of cardiac conditions. BACKGROUND: Unwell COVID-19 patients are at risk of cardiac complications. Prone ventilation is recommended but poses practical challenges to acquisition of a 12-lead ECG. The effects of prone positioning on the ECG remain unknown. METHODS: 100 patients each underwent 3 ECGs: standard supine front (SF); prone position with precordial leads attached to front (PF); and prone with precordial leads attached to back in a mirror image to front (PB). RESULTS: Prone positioning was associated with QTc prolongation (PF 437 ± 32 ms vs. SF 432 ± 31 ms; p < 0.01; PB 436 ± 34 ms vs. SF 432 ± 31 ms; p = 0.02). In leads V1 to V3 on PB ECG, a qR morphology was present in 90% and changes in T-wave polarity in 84%. In patients with anterior ischemia, ST-segment changes in V1 to V3 on supine ECG were no longer visible on PB in 100% and replaced by an R-wave in V1. Bundle branch block (BBB) remained detectable in 100% on PB, with left BBB appearing as right BBB on PB in 71% and QRS narrowing with qR in V1 for right BBB. ST-segment/T-wave changes in limb leads and arrhythmia detection were largely unaffected in PB. CONCLUSIONS: As expected, the PB ECG is unreliable for the detection of anterior myocardial injury but remains useful for ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities in limb leads, BBB detection, and rhythm monitoring. The prone ECG is a useful screening tool with diagnostic utility in COVID-19 patients who require prone ventilation.

AIMS: The impact of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in early heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unknown. Our aim was to determine the impact of AF ablation on symptoms and exercise haemodynamic parameters of early HFpEF. METHODS AND RESULTS: Symptomatic AF patients referred for index AF ablation with ejection fraction ≥50% underwent baseline quality of life questionnaires, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, exercise right heart catheterisation (exRHC), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) testing. HFpEF was defined by resting pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) ≥15 mmHg or peak exercise PCWP ≥25 mmHg. Patients with HFpEF were offered AF ablation and follow-up exRHC ≥6 months post-ablation. Of 54 patients undergoing baseline evaluation, 35 (65%) had HFpEF identified by exRHC. HFpEF patients were older (64 ± 10 vs. 54 ± 13 years, P < 0.01), and more frequently female (54% vs. 16%, P < 0.01), hypertensive (63% vs. 16%, P < 0.001), and suffering persistent AF (66% vs. 11%, P < 0.001), compared to those without HFpEF. Twenty HFpEF patients underwent AF ablation and follow-up exRHC 12 ± 6 months post-ablation. Nine (45%) patients no longer fulfilled exRHC criteria for HFpEF at follow-up. Patients remaining arrhythmia free (n = 9, 45%) showed significant improvements in peak exercise PCWP (29 ± 4 to 23 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.01) and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure (MLHF) score (55 ± 30 to 22 ± 30, P < 0.01) while the remainder did not (PCWP 31 ± 5 to 30.0 ± 4 mmHg, P = NS; MLHF score 55 ± 23 to 25 ± 20, P = NS). CONCLUSION: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction frequently coexists in patients with symptomatic AF and preserved ejection fraction. Restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm in patients with comorbid AF and HFpEF improves haemodynamic parameters, BNP and symptoms associated with HFpEF.

Background: Multipolar catheters provide high-density mapping which may reduce the procedural duration and improve the success of catheter ablation (CA) for focal arrhythmias. The high-density grid (HDG) catheter is a 16 electrode mapping catheter with bipole recordings at orthogonal splines. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical and procedural features from a cohort who underwent CA for focal arrhythmias using multipolar mapping (MPM) with age and case-matched cohort using point-by-point (PbyP) mapping. Method(s): Consecutive patients undergoing CA for focal arrhythmias between October 2018 and January 2020 guided by MPM were compared with PbyP mapping with the ablation catheter over a similar period. Demographics, procedural features, and outcomes were compared. Result(s): A total of 54 patients (27 in MPM vs. 27 in PbyP mapping) underwent CA for 68 focal arrhythmias (26 atrial and 42 ventricular). In the MPM group, the electrogram at the successful site was significantly earlier (39 +/- 11 ms) than in the PbyP group (33 +/- 7 ms; p =.02). In the MPM group, the mapping time (35 +/- 24 vs. 53 +/- 31 min in PbyP; p =.03) and procedural duration (126 +/- 42 vs. 153 +/- 39 min in PbyP; p =.02) were significantly shorter. There was no significant difference in radiofrequency and fluoroscopy times, acute procedural success, and arrhythmia recurrence. Conclusion(s): MPM with the HDG catheter for focal tachycardias identified earlier activation times and was associated with shorter mapping and procedure duration with equivalent success to PbyP mapping.Copyright © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC

BACKGROUND: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with incident atrial fibrillation and adverse atrial remodeling; however, the effect of abstinence from alcohol on secondary prevention of atrial fibrillation is unclear. METHOD(S): We conducted a multicenter, prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled trial at six hospitals in Australia. Adults who consumed 10 or more standard drinks (with 1 standard drink containing approximately 12 g of pure alcohol) per week and who had paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation in sinus rhythm at baseline were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either abstain from alcohol or continue their usual alcohol consumption. The two primary end points were freedom from recurrence of atrial fibrillation (after a 2-week "blanking period") and total atrial fibrillation burden (proportion of time in atrial fibrillation) during 6 months of follow-up. RESULT(S): Of 140 patients who underwent randomization (85% men; mean [+/-SD] age, 62+/-9 years), 70 were assigned to the abstinence group and 70 to the control group. Patients in the abstinence group reduced their alcohol intake from 16.8+/-7.7 to 2.1+/-3.7 standard drinks per week (a reduction of 87.5%), and patients in the control group reduced their alcohol intake from 16.4+/-6.9 to 13.2+/-6.5 drinks per week (a reduction of 19.5%). After a 2-week blanking period, atrial fibrillation recurred in 37 of 70 patients (53%) in the abstinence group and in 51 of 70 patients (73%) in the control group. The abstinence group had a longer period before recurrence of atrial fibrillation than the control group (hazard ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.36 to 0.84; P=0.005). The atrial fibrillation burden over 6 months of follow-up was significantly lower in the abstinence group than in the control group (median percentage of time in atrial fibrillation, 0.5% [interquartile range, 0.0 to 3.0] vs. 1.2% [interquartile range, 0.0 to 10.3]; P=0.01). CONCLUSION(S): Abstinence from alcohol red

BACKGROUND Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with incident atrial fibrillation and adverse atrial remodeling; however, the effect of abstinence from alcohol on secondary prevention of atrial fibrillation is unclear. METHODS We conducted a multicenter, prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled trial at six hospitals in Australia. Adults who consumed 10 or more standard drinks (with 1 standard drink containing approximately 12 g of pure alcohol) per week and who had paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation in sinus rhythm at baseline were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either abstain from alcohol or continue their usual alcohol consumption. The two primary end points were freedom from recurrence of atrial fibrillation (after a 2-week "blanking period") and total atrial fibrillation burden (proportion of time in atrial fibrillation) during 6 months of follow-up. RESULTS Of 140 patients who underwent randomization (85% men; mean [+/-SD] age, 62+/-9 years), 70 were assigned to the abstinence group and 70 to the control group. Patients in the abstinence group reduced their alcohol intake from 16.8+/-7.7 to 2.1+/-3.7 standard drinks per week (a reduction of 87.5%), and patients in the control group reduced their alcohol intake from 16.4+/-6.9 to 13.2+/-6.5 drinks per week (a reduction of 19.5%). After a 2-week blanking period, atrial fibrillation recurred in 37 of 70 patients (53%) in the abstinence group and in 51 of 70 patients (73%) in the control group. The abstinence group had a longer period before recurrence of atrial fibrillation than the control group (hazard ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.36 to 0.84; P = 0.005). The atrial fibrillation burden over 6 months of follow-up was significantly lower in the abstinence group than in the control group (median percentage of time in atrial fibrillation, 0.5% [interquartile range, 0.0 to 3.0] vs. 1.2% [interquartile range, 0.0 to 10.3]; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Abstinence from alcohol reduced a

BACKGROUND: Multipolar catheters provide high-density mapping which may reduce the procedural duration and improve the success of catheter ablation (CA) for focal arrhythmias. The high-density grid (HDG) catheter is a 16 electrode mapping catheter with bipole recordings at orthogonal splines. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical and procedural features from a cohort who underwent CA for focal arrhythmias using multipolar mapping (MPM) with age and case-matched cohort using point-by-point (PbyP) mapping. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing CA for focal arrhythmias between October 2018 and January 2020 guided by MPM were compared with PbyP mapping with the ablation catheter over a similar period. Demographics, procedural features, and outcomes were compared. RESULTS: A total of 54 patients (27 in MPM vs. 27 in PbyP mapping) underwent CA for 68 focal arrhythmias (26 atrial and 42 ventricular). In the MPM group, the electrogram at the successful site was significantly earlier (39 ± 11 ms) than in the PbyP group (33 ± 7 ms; p = .02). In the MPM group, the mapping time (35 ± 24 vs. 53 ± 31 min in PbyP; p = .03) and procedural duration (126 ± 42 vs. 153 ± 39 min in PbyP; p = .02) were significantly shorter. There was no significant difference in radiofrequency and fluoroscopy times, acute procedural success, and arrhythmia recurrence. CONCLUSION: MPM with the HDG catheter for focal tachycardias identified earlier activation times and was associated with shorter mapping and procedure duration with equivalent success to PbyP mapping.

Enduring isolation of the pulmonary veins (PV) is becoming increasingly common in patients undergoing repeat catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. We describe our approach to ablation strategy in a patient with enduring isolation of PV and briefly discuss the role of non-PV triggers.

Aim: To investigate the impact of alcohol abstinence in atrial fibrillation. Method(s): We undertook a randomised controlled trial at 6 hospitals. Adults consuming >=10 standard drinks/week (1 SD ~ 12 g alcohol) with a history of paroxysmal or persistent AF were assigned 1:1 to alcohol abstinence or usual consumption. Primary endpoints at 6 months were time to AF recurrence and AF burden Results: 140 patients (age 62 +/- 9 yrs, 63% PAF, intake 17 +/- 7 SDs/week) were randomised to Abstinence (n = 70) or Control (n = 70). Recurrent AF was documented in 37 patients in the Abstinence arm and 51 patients in the Control arm (52.9% vs 72.9%; p = 0.01). The Abstinence arm had longer AF-free survival (log-rank p < 0.01) and lower AF burden (median burden 0.5%, IQR 0-3% vs 1.2%, IQR 0-10%; p = 0.01). At 6 months, the Abstinence arm had lower moderate-severe AF symptoms (10.1% vs 32.4%; p = 0.002), DELTAweight (-2.7 +/- 3.3 vs +0.8 +/- 3.0 kg; p < 0.01) and DELTAsystolic blood pressure (-12.4 +/- 12.8 vs -1.0 +/- 12.5 mmHg; p = 0.02). Conclusion(s): Significant reduction in alcohol intake should be part of the lifestyle intervention in moderate drinkers with AF. [Figure presented]Copyright © 2019

AIMS: Obesity is associated with higher electrical cardioversion (ECV) failure in persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF). For ease-of-use, many centers prefer patches over paddles. We assessed the optimum modality and shock vector, as well as the safety and efficacy of the Manual Pressure Augmentation (MPA) technique. METHODS: Patients with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) and PeAF undergoing ECV using a biphasic defibrillator were randomized into one of four arms by modality (adhesive patches or handheld paddles) and shock vector (anteroposterior [AP] or anteroapical [AA]). If the first two shocks (100 and 200 J) failed, then patients received a 200-J shock using the alternative modality (patch or paddle). Shock vector remained unchanged. In an observational substudy, 20 patients with BMI of 35 or more, and who failed ECV at 200 J using both patches/paddles underwent a trial of MPA. RESULTS: In total, 125 patients were randomized between July 2016 and March 2018. First or second shock success was 43 of 63 (68.2%) for patches and 56 of 62 (90.3%) for paddles (P = 0.002). There were 20 crossovers from patches to paddles (12 of 20 third shock success with paddles) and six crossovers from paddles to patches (three of six third shock success with patches). Paddles successfully cardioverted 68 of 82 patients compared with 46 of 69 using patches (82.9% vs 66.7%; P = 0.02). Shock vector did not influence first or second shock success rates (82.0% AP vs 76.6% AA; P = 0.46). MPA was successful in 16 of 20 (80%) who failed in both (patches/paddles), with 360 J required in six of seven cases. CONCLUSION: Routine use of adhesive patches at 200 J is inadequate in obesity. Strategies that improve success include the use of paddles, MPA, and escalation to 360 J.

Catheter ablation has become standard of care in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). Although there have been significant advances in our understanding and technology, a substantial proportion of patients have ongoing AF requiring repeat procedures. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of AF ablation; however, it is less effective in patients with persistent as opposed to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Left atrial posterior wall isolation (PWI) is commonly performed as an adjunct to PVI in patients with persistent AF with nonrandomized studies showing improved outcomes. Anatomical considerations and detailed outline of the various approaches and techniques to performing PWI are detailed, and advantages and pitfalls to assist the clinical electrophysiologist successfully and safely complete PWI are described.

Arrhythmia induced cardiomyopathies (AIC) refer to the collective condition of Arrhythmia, Tachycardia, and ectopy-induced Cardiomyopathy. Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) are modern epidemics that often coexist and exacerbate one another. We aim to provide an overview of the current understanding and evidence for treatment and management in AIC with a particular focus on AF-mediated cardiomyopathy and suggest approaches to recognize, screen, and manage AIC.

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) and left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) frequently co-exist despite adequate rate control. Existing randomized studies of AF and LVSD of varying etiologies have reported modest benefits with a rhythm control strategy. Objectives The goal of this study was to determine whether catheter ablation (CA) for AF could improve LVSD compared with medical rate control (MRC) where the etiology of the LVSD was unexplained, apart from the presence of AF. Methods This multicenter, randomized clinical trial enrolled patients with persistent AF and idiopathic cardiomyopathy (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] <=45%). After optimization of rate control, patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) to assess LVEF and late gadolinium enhancement, indicative of ventricular fibrosis, before randomization to either CA or ongoing MRC. CA included pulmonary vein isolation and posterior wall isolation. AF burden post-CA was assessed by using an implanted loop recorder, and adequacy of MRC was assessed by using serial Holter monitoring. The primary endpoint was change in LVEF on repeat CMR at 6 months. Results A total of 301 patients were screened; 68 patients were enrolled between November 2013 and October 2016 and randomized with 33 in each arm (accounting for 2 dropouts). The average AF burden post-CA was 1.6 +/- 5.0% at 6 months. In the intention-to-treat analysis, absolute LVEF improved by 18 +/- 13% in the CA group compared with 4.4 +/- 13% in the MRC group (p < 0.0001) and normalized (LVEF >=50%) in 58% versus 9% (p = 0.0002). In those undergoing CA, the absence of late gadolinium enhancement predicted greater improvements in absolute LVEF (10.7%; p = 0.0069) and normalization at 6 months (73% vs. 29%; p = 0.0093). Conclusions AF is an underappreciated reversible cause of LVSD in this population despite adequate rate control. The restoration of sinus rhythm with CA results in significant improvements in ventricular function, p

Background: The long-term benefit of early percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for cardiogenic shock (CS) in elderly patients remains unclear. We sought to assess the long-term survival of elderly patients (age ≥ 75 years) with myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by CS undergoing PCI. Methods: We analyzed baseline characteristics, early outcomes, and long-term survival in 421 consecutive patients presenting with MI and CS who underwent PCI from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry from 2004 to 2011. Mean follow-up of patients who survived to hospital discharge was 3.0 ± 1.8 years. Results: Of the 421 consecutive patients, 122 patients were elderly (≥ 75 years) and 299 patients were younger (< 75 years). The elderly cohort had significantly more females, peripheral and cerebrovascular disease, renal impairment, heart failure (HF) and prior MI (all p < 0.05). Procedural success was lower in the elderly (83% vs. 92%, p < 0.01). Long-term mortality was significantly higher in the elderly (p < 0.01), driven by high in-hospital mortality (48% vs. 36%, p < 0.05). However, in a landmark analysis of hospital survivors in the elderly group, long-term mortality rates stabilized, approximating younger patients with CS (p = 0.22). Unsuccessful procedure, renal impairment, HF and diabetes mellitus were independent predictors of long-term mortality. However, age ≥ 75 was not a significant predictor (HR 1.2; 95% CI 0.9–1.7; p = 0.2). Conclusions: Elderly patients with MI and CS have lower procedural success and higher in-hospital mortality compared to younger patients. However, comparable long-term survival can be achieved, especially in patients who survive to hospital discharge with the selective use of early revascularization.

Background Comorbidities, such as diabetes, affect revascularization strategy for coronary disease. We sought to determine if the degree of renal impairment affected long-term mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with multi-vessel coronary disease (MVD). Methods and results 8970 patients with MVD undergoing revascularization between 2004 and 2008, in two multi-center parallel PCI and CABG Australian registries were assigned to three groups based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >= 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 1678:839), 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 452:226) and < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 74:37). We used 2:1 propensity matching to compare 3306 patients undergoing primary CABG versus PCI. Shock, myocardial infarction (MI) < 24 h, previous CABG, valve surgery or PCI were exclusions. Long-term mortality (mean 3.1 years) was compared with Cox-proportional hazard-adjusted modeling. Observed long-term mortality rates (CABG vs. PCI) were 4.5% vs. 4.3% p = 0.84, 12.8% vs. 17.3% p = 0.12, and 23.0% vs. 40.5% p = 0.05 in the three strata, respectively. In patients with eGFR >= 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, long-term mortality between PCI and CABG (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.65-1.49, p = 0.95) was similar. However, amongst patients with eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2, there was a significant mortality hazard with PCI (HR 2.00, 95% CI 1.32-3.04, p = 0.001). In patients with eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, there was a trend for hazard with PCI (HR 1.66, 95% CI 0.80-3.46, p = 0.17). Conclusion Long-term mortality in MVD patients with preserved renal function was very low and similar between PCI and CABG. However there was a long-term mortality hazard associated with PCI amongst patients with moderate renal impairment. © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Background Comorbidities, such as diabetes, affect revascularization strategy for coronary disease. We sought to determine if the degree of renal impairment affected long-term mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with multi-vessel coronary disease (MVD). Methods and results 8970 patients with MVD undergoing revascularization between 2004 and 2008, in two multi-center parallel PCI and CABG Australian registries were assigned to three groups based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) = 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 1678:839), 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 452:226) and < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 74:37). We used 2:1 propensity matching to compare 3306 patients undergoing primary CABG versus PCI. Shock, myocardial infarction (MI) < 24 h, previous CABG, valve surgery or PCI were exclusions. Long-term mortality (mean 3.1 years) was compared with Cox-proportional hazard-adjusted modeling. Observed long-term mortality rates (CABG vs. PCI) were 4.5% vs. 4.3% p = 0.84, 12.8% vs. 17.3% p = 0.12, and 23.0% vs. 40.5% p = 0.05 in the three strata, respectively. In patients with eGFR = 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, long-term mortality between PCI and CABG (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.65-1.49, p = 0.95) was similar. However, amongst patients with eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2, there was a significant mortality hazard with PCI (HR 2.00, 95% CI 1.32-3.04, p = 0.001). In patients with eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, there was a trend for hazard with PCI (HR 1.66, 95% CI 0.80-3.46, p = 0.17). Conclusion Long-term mortality in MVD patients with preserved renal function was very low and similar between PCI and CABG. However there was a long-term mortality hazard associated with PCI amongst patients with moderate renal impairment. © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Background: Renal failure is an important predictor of mortality in patients with MVD who undergo coronary revascularization. We sought to determine if the degree of renal impairment affects long-term mortality based on choice of revascularization strategy. Method(s): We analysed 7,841 patients with MVD undergoing either CABG (n=6,739) or PCI (n=1,102) between 2004-2008, enrolled in two large multi-centre Australian registries. Patients were assigned to three groups using stratified propensity matching based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline; >=60 (CABG=4,674 vs. PCI=839), 30-59 (CABG=1,799 vs. PCI=226) and <30ml/min/1.73m2 (CABG=266 vs. PCI=37) respectively. Shock, myocardial infarction (MI) <24 hours, previous CABG, valve surgery or PCI were exclusions. We compared Cox-proportional hazards-adjusted National Death Index-linked long-term mortality (mean 3.2 years). Result(s): In patients with eGFR30-59 and >=60mL/min/1.73cm2, there were more women, octogenarians and recent MI in the PCI group and a higher prevalence of cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, prior heart failure and MI in the CABG group. Observed long-term mortality rates (CABG vs. PCI) were 4.8% vs. 4.3% p=0.50, 11.3% vs. 17.3% p=0.009, 19.9% vs. 40.5% p=0.005 in the three strata, respectively. Following adjustment, patients with eGFR>=60ml/min/1.73cm2 had no significant difference in long-term mortality. However, with eGFR30-59mL/min/1.73cm2, PCI was an independent predictor of long-term mortality (HR1.55, 95%CI1.07-2.25, p=0.02). For eGFR<30mL/min/1.73cm2, there was a trend towards higher mortality with PCI (HR1.80, 95%CI0.95-3.41, p=0.07). Conclusion(s): In this stratified, propensity-matched study there was a long-term mortality hazard associated with PCI for patients with eGFR30-59ml/min/1.73m2. The effect may be higher for eGFR<30ml/min/1.73m2.

Background: Renal failure is an important predictor of mortality in patients with MVD who undergo coronary revascularisation. We sought to determine if the degree of renal impairment affects long-term mortality based on choice of revascularisation strategy. Method(s): We analysed 7841 patients with MVD undergoing either CABG (n = 6,739) or PCI (n = 1,102) between 2004 and 2008, enrolled in two large multi-centre Australian registries. Patients were assigned to three groups using stratified propensity matching based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline; >=60 (CABG=4674 vs. PCI = 839), 30-59 (CABG=1799 vs. PCI = 226) and <30 ml/min/1.73m2 (CABG=266 vs. PCI = 37) respectively. Shock, myocardial infarction (MI) <24 h, previous CABG, valve surgery or PCI were exclusions. We compared Cox-proportional hazards-adjusted National Death Index-linked long-term mortality (mean 3.2 years). Result(s): in patients with eGFR30-59 and >=60 ml/min/1.73cm2, there were more women, octogenarians and recent MI in the PCI group and a higher prevalence of cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, prior heart failure and MI in the CABG group. Observed long-term mortality rates (CABG vs. PCI) were 4.8% vs. 4.3% p = 0.50, 11.3% vs. 17.3% p = 0.009, 19.9% vs. 40.5% p = 0.005 in the three strata, respectively. Following adjustment, patients with eGFR>=60 ml/min/1.73cm2 had no significant difference in long-term mortality. However, with eGFR30-59 ml/min/1.73cm2, PCI was an independent predictor of long-term mortality (HR1.55, 95%CI 1.07-2.25, p = 0.02). For eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73cm2, there was a trend towards higher mortality with PCI (HR1.80, 95%CI 0.95-3.41, p = 0.07). Conclusion(s): in this stratified, propensity-matched study there was a long-term mortality hazard associated with PCI for patients with eGFR30-59 ml/min/1.73m2. The effect may be higher for eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73m2.