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Aims Remote monitoring (RM) is the standard of care for follow up of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices. The aim of this study was to compare smartphone-based RM (SM-RM) using patient applications (myMerlinPulse™ app) with traditional bedside monitor RM (BM-RM). Methods and results The retrospective study included de-identified US patients who received either SM-RM or BM-RM capable of implantable cardioverter defibrillators or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (Abbott, USA). Patients in SM-RM and BM-RM groups were propensity-score matched on age and gender, device type, implant year, and month. Compliance with RM was quantified as the proportion of patients enrolling in the RM system (Merlin.net™) and transmitting data at least once. Connectivity was measured by the median number of days between consecutive transmissions per patient. Of the initial 9714 patients with SM-RM and 26 679 patients with BM-RM, 9397 patients from each group were matched. Remote monitoring compliance was higher in SM-RM; significantly more patients with SM-RM were enrolled in RM compared with BM-RM (94.4 vs. 85.0%, P < 0.001), similar number of patients in the SM-RM group paired their device (95.1 vs. 95.0%, P = 0.77), but more SM-RM patients transmitted at least once (98.1 vs. 94.3%, P < 0.001). Connectivity was significantly higher in the SM-RM, with patients transmitting data every 1.2 (1.1, 1.7) vs. every 1.7 (1.5, 2.0) days with BM-RM (P < 0.001) and remained better over time. Significantly more SM-RM patients utilized patient-initiated transmissions compared with BM-RM (55.6 vs. 28.1%, P < 0.001). Conclusion In this large real-world study, patients with SM-RM demonstrated improved compliance and connectivity compared with BM-RM.

The role of subclinical atrial fibrillation as a cause of cryptogenic stroke is unambiguously established. Long-term electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring remains the sole method for determining its presence following a negative initial workup. This position paper of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on e-Cardiology first presents the definition, epidemiology, and clinical impact of cryptogenic ischaemic stroke, as well as its aetiopathogenic association with occult atrial fibrillation. Then, classification methods for ischaemic stroke will be discussed, along with their value in providing meaningful guidance for further diagnostic efforts, given disappointing findings of studies based on the embolic stroke of unknown significance construct. Patient selection criteria for long-term ECG monitoring, crucial for determining pre-test probability of subclinical atrial fibrillation, will also be discussed. Subsequently, the two major classes of long-term ECG monitoring tools (non-invasive and invasive) will be presented, with a discussion of each method’s pitfalls and related algorithms to improve diagnostic yield and accuracy. Although novel mobile health (mHealth) devices, including smartphones and smartwatches, have dramatically increased atrial fibrillation detection post ischaemic stroke, the latest evidence appears to favour implantable cardiac monitors as the modality of choice; however, the answer to whether they should constitute the initial diagnostic choice for all cryptogenic stroke patients remains elusive. Finally, institutional and organizational issues, such as reimbursement, responsibility for patient management, data ownership, and handling will be briefly touched upon, despite the fact that guidance remains scarce and widespread clinical application and experience are the most likely sources for definite answers.

Aims Little is known about patients with right bundle branch block (RBBB)-ventricular tachycardia (VT) and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). Our aims were: (i) to describe electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics of sinus rhythm (SR) and VT; (ii) to correlate SR with RBBB-VT ECGs; and (iii) to compare VT ECGs with electro-anatomic mapping (EAM) data. Methods and results From the European Survey on ACM, 70 patients with spontaneous RBBB-VT were included. Putative left ventricular (LV) sites of origin (SOOs) were estimated with a VT-axis-derived methodology and confirmed by EAM data when available. Overall, 49 (70%) patients met definite Task Force Criteria. Low QRS voltage predominated in lateral leads (n = 37, 55%), but QRS fragmentation was more frequent in inferior leads (n = 15, 23%). T-wave inversion (TWI) was equally frequent in inferior (n = 28, 42%) and lateral (n = 27, 40%) leads. TWI in inferior leads was associated with reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF; 46 ± 10 vs. 53 ± 8, P = 0.02). Regarding SOOs, the inferior wall harboured 31 (46%) SOOs, followed by the lateral wall (n = 17, 25%), the anterior wall (n = 15, 22%), and the septum (n = 4, 6%). EAM data were available for 16 patients and showed good concordance with the putative SOOs. In all patients with superior-axis RBBB-VT who underwent endo-epicardial VT activation mapping, VT originated from the LV. Conclusions In patients with ACM and RBBB-VT, RBBB-VTs originated mainly from the inferior and lateral LV walls. SR depolarization and repolarization abnormalities were frequent and associated with underlying variants.

Background: Left ventricular (LV) scar on late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance has been correlated with life-threatening arrhythmic events in patients with apparently idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). We investigated the prognostic significance of a specific LV-LGE phenotype characterized by a ringlike pattern of fibrosis. Methods: A total of 686 patients with apparently idiopathic nonsustained VA underwent contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance. A ringlike pattern of LV scar was defined as LV subepicardial/midmyocardial LGE involving at least 3 contiguous segments in the same short-axis slice. The end point of the study was time to the composite outcome of all-cause death, resuscitated cardiac arrest because of ventricular fibrillation or hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia and appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy. Results: A total of 28 patients (4%) had a ringlike pattern of scar (group A), 78 (11%) had a non-ringlike pattern (group B), and 580 (85%) had normal cardiac magnetic resonance with no LGE (group C). Group A patients were younger compared with groups B and C (median age, 40 vs 52 vs 45 years; P, SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Since digital devices are increasingly used in cardiology for assessing cardiac rhythm and detecting arrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation (AF), our aim was to evaluate the expectations and opinions of healthcare professionals in Europe on reimbursement policies for the use of digital devices (including wearables) in AF and other arrhythmias. An anonymous survey was proposed through announcements on the European Heart Rhythm Association website, social media channels, and mail newsletter. Two hundred and seventeen healthcare professionals participated in the survey: 32.7%, reported regular use of digital devices, 45.2% reported that they sometimes use these tools, 18.6% that they do not use but would like to. Only a minority (3.5%) reported a lack of trust in digital devices. The survey highlighted a general propensity to provide medical consultation for suspected AF or other arrhythmias detected by a consumer-initiated use of digital devices, even if time constraints and reimbursement availability emerged as important elements. More than 85% of respondents agreed that reimbursement should be applied for clinical use of digital devices, also in different settings such as post-stroke, post-cardioversion, post-ablation, and in patients with palpitations or syncope. Finally, 73.6% of respondents confirmed a lack of reimbursement fees in their country for physicians’ consultations (tracings interpretation) related to digital devices. Digital devices, including wearables, are increasingly and widely used for assessing cardiac rhythm and detecting AF, but a definition of reimbursement policies for physicians’ consultations is needed.

Introduction – The current scientific literature suggests similar or even better catheter contact on caval regions of the cavo-tricuspid isthmus (CTI) compared to the more medial or annular part. Yet CTI ablation can be challenging owing to instability at the inferior vena cava (IVC) edge. No study specifically addressed the issue of catheter-tissue contact on caval/mid/annular regions of the CTI. Methods – Twenty-seven patients (22 men, 67±12 years) underwent typical atrial flutter ablation with a contact force (CF) sensing catheter (Tacticath 75, Abott) and were prospectively included. Operators aimed at optimizing CF for all RF pulses. The product of CF, time (force-time integral; FTI) and delivered power (FTPI) has been proposed as an estimate of lesion size. In a subset of 8 consecutive pts, electrograms (EGM) of all RF lesions were analyzed. Annular CTI was defined as sites showing both atrial and ventricular near-field bipolar EGM. Mid CTI sites had only atrial near field bipolar EGM on both distal and proximal dipoles (or distal only in case of superior-to-inferior approach). Caval sites had near-field bipolar EGM only in distal dipole, while the proximal one was inferiorly located. Results – Complete persistent (at 30 min) CTI block was obtained in all patients. A steerable sheath was used in 12 pts (44%). Procedure duration was 93±30 min, RF delivery time 10±6 min, fluoroscopy time 14±8 min. Mean CF was 15.8±5.9 g. CF was significantly lower (11.1±9.7 g) at the caval CTI than at mid CTI (19.9±11.8 g) and annular CTI (20±12.2 g; p=0.001). CF and FTI were higher during sinus rhythm than during Fl (23.2±15.3 vs 18.5±15.4 g, p=0.04 and 677±432 vs 532±357 gs, p=0.03). Use of a sheath improved mean CF (24.4±12.5 vs 18.4±14.9 g, p=0.01) but this was not significant at caval sites (17.5±11.4 vs 12.6±10.7 g, p=0.31). Conclusion – Applied forces are significantly lower at the IVC edge during CTI ablation. This supports the use of a steerable sheath in challenging cases.

Background: Calcineurin Inhibitors (CNIs) play a pivotal role in anti rejection therapy for transplant patients. Neurotoxicity is a known side effect that usually manifests as encephalopathy but myoclonus has also been described. Perioperative myoclonus as a manifestation of neurotoxicity, has not been well studied. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from 842,762 patients from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from January 2011 to December 2014. Of those records we compared 56,423 patients requiring CNIs and undergoing Heart Transplant (HT) with 786,339 patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery as controls. The objective was to study the rates of myoclonus in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, especially those requiring CNIs, and study the outcome of those patients with myoclonus. The NIS database from January 2011 to December 2014 was the source for the analysis. Patients with underlying epilepsy or hypo-ischemic encephalopathy based on ICD-9-CM codes were excluded from the study. Results: A total of 147 patients (0.26%) were found to have myoclonus in the HT group versus 338 patients (0.04%) in the CABG group, p < 0.0001. No differences in the demographics were seen except for kidney disease which was higher in the HT group. The difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for confounders. Patients with myoclonus in both groups were more likely to have acute kidney injury and have a prolonged length of stay. Only patients with myoclonus in the CABG group had higher rates of discharge disposition to a nursing home and higher rates of in-Hospital mortality. A trend towards higher in-Hospital mortality was found in patients with myoclonus in the HT group. Conclusion: In this study we have compared the rate of myoclonus found in HT patients versus CABG patients. We have identified calcineurin inhibitors as potentially contributing to myoclonus due to its neurotoxic effects. The study also suggests that other disease processes like renal failure may also have an impact on the rate of myoclonus even in the absence of calcineurin inhibitors. Higher rates of myoclonus were seen in patients undergoing HT when compared to patients undergoing CABG, suggesting that CNIs may increase the risk for myoclonus. Myoclonus may be a clinical indicator of patient overall health including a more permeable blood brain barrier. In-Hospital mortality was higher in patients with myoclonus undergoing CABG and a trend towards significance in the HT group suggesting that it may be a marker of poor prognosis. More studies are needed to corroborate our findings.

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A 75-year-old man was admitted for repeat ablation of atrial fibrillation. At 30 min after infusion of 3.5 ml of ethanol into the vein of Marshall, inferior ST-segment elevation with coronary arterial vasospasm was observed. This is the first report of coronary vasospasm after chemical ablation of the vein of Marshall. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.), Graphical abstract, A 75-year-old man was admitted for repeat ablation of atrial fibrillation. At 30 min after infusion of 3.5 ml of ethanol into the vein of Marshall, inferior…

Objectives This study investigated the prevalence and prognostic significance of concealed myocardial abnormalities identified by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in patients with apparently idiopathic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). Background The role of CMR imaging in patients with frequent PVCs and otherwise negative diagnostic workup is uncertain. Methods This was a multicenter, international study that included 518 patients (44 ± 15 years; 57% men) with frequent (>1,000/24 h) PVCs and negative routine diagnostic workup. Patients underwent a comprehensive CMR protocol including late gadolinium enhancement imaging for detection of necrosis and/or fibrosis. The study endpoint was a composite of sudden cardiac death, resuscitated cardiac arrest, and nonfatal episodes of ventricular fibrillation or sustained ventricular tachycardia that required appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy. Results Myocardial abnormalities were found in 85 (16%) patients. Male gender (odds ratio [OR]: 4.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.06 to 8.93; p = 0.01), family history of sudden cardiac death and/or cardiomyopathy (OR: 3.61; 95% CI: 1.33 to 9.82; p = 0.01), multifocal PVCs (OR: 11.12; 95% CI: 4.35 to 28.46; p Conclusions CMR can identify concealed myocardial abnormalities in 16% of patients with apparently idiopathic frequent PVCs. Presence of myocardial abnormalities on CMR predict worse clinical outcomes.

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Aims In arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) typically displays a left bundle branch block (LBBB) morphology while a right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology is rare. The present study assesses the VT morphology in ACM patients with sustained VT and their clinical and genetic characteristics. Methods and results Twenty-six centres from 11 European countries provided information on 954 ACM patients who had ≥1 episode of sustained VT spontaneously documented during patients’ clinical course. Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy was defined according to the 2010 Task Force Criteria, and VT morphology according to the QRS pattern in V1. Overall, 882 (92.5%) patients displayed LBBB-VT alone and 72 (7.5%) RBBB-VT [alone in 42 (4.4%) or in combination with LBBB-VT in 30 (3.1%)]. Male sex prevalence was 79.3%, 88.1%, and 56.7% in the LBBB-VT, RBBB-VT, and LBBB + RBBB-VT groups, respectively (P = 0.007). First RBBB-VT occurred 5 years after the first LBBB-VT (46.5 ± 14.4 vs 41.1 ± 15.8 years, P = 0.011). An implanted cardioverter-defibrillator was more frequently implanted in the RBBB-VT (92.9%) and the LBBB + RBBB-VT groups (90%) than in the LBBB-VT group (68.1%) (P Conclusion RBBB-VT accounts for a significant proportion of sustained VTs in ACM. Sex and type of pathogenic mutations were associated with VT type, female sex with LBBB + RBBB-VT, and DSP mutation with RBBB-VT.

There is an increasing pressure on demonstrating the value of medical interventions and medical technologies resulting in the proposal of new approaches for implementation in the daily practice of innovative treatments that might carry a substantial cost. While originally mainly adopted by pharmaceutical companies, in recent years medical technology companies have initiated novel value-based arrangements for using medical devices, in the form of ‘outcomes-based contracts’, ‘performance-based contracts’, or ‘risk-sharing agreements’. These are all characterized by linking coverage, reimbursement, or payment for the innovative treatment to the attainment of pre-specified clinical outcomes. Risk-sharing agreements have been promoted also in the field of electrophysiology and offer the possibility to demonstrate the value of specific innovative technologies proposed in this rapidly advancing field, while relieving hospitals from taking on the whole financial risk themselves. Physicians deeply involved in the field of devices and technologies for arrhythmia management and invasive electrophysiology need to be prepared for involvement as stakeholders. This may imply engagement in the evaluation of risk-sharing agreements and specifically, in the process of assessment of technology performances or patient outcomes. Scientific Associations may have an important role in promoting the basis for value-based assessments, in promoting educational initiatives to help assess the determinants of the learning curve for innovative treatments, and in promoting large-scale registries for a precise assessment of patient outcomes and of specific technologies’ performance.

The current AF definition requires recording in classical ECG or Holter ECG at least a 30-s episode of AF. According to the current definition, the presence of frequent shorter episodes of fast atrial arrhythmia or episodes of arrhythmia identified with widely used screening tools requires subsequent steps to establish a definite diagnosis of AF. The use of different clinical risk scores can help to refine target populations better. Due to the unpredictable and highly variable nature of AF episodes, a monitoring time lasting 2 weeks or longer is preferable to maximize the possibility of identifying subjects with AF. Several capabilities are currently available for AF search/screening, including devices based on plethysmographic pulse assessment, belts and vests for long-term ECG monitoring, modern Holter capabilities, and ILRs. Decision-making regarding using particular of them should depend on proof of efficacy based on published data, patient characteristics, and purpose of monitoring (screening/search). Additionally, all subjects with CIED with the possibility of atrial sensing should be carefully evaluated to identify AHREs. In large-scale screening projects, ML and AI could provide the appropriate interpretation of large databases containing the results of a giant number of participants. From the patient perspective, participation in screening has positive but also negative aspects. Therefore, each patient should be able to accept or refuse to participate in a screening programme, being fully aware of the potential benefits or hurdles of the screening. As the first step of shared decision-making, identifying a patient’s values, goals, and preferences is mandatory.

Background: Atrial anti-tachycardia pacing (A-ATP) of the right atrium (RA) has been shown to decrease the burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with dual-chamber pacemakers. The aim of this study is to identify the novel predictors of effective A-ATP for terminating AF in patients with AF undergoing catheter ablation. Methods: This study included 41 consecutive patients undergoing a first ablation procedure for paroxysmal (PAF: n = 21) or persistent (PEF: n = 20) AF. We prospectively evaluated predictors of AF termination after A-ATP. The coefficient of variation (CoV = SD/mean × 100) of the dominant frequencies (DFs) was calculated to evaluate the variability in atrial activation. Results: AF was terminated by A-ATP in 29% of PAF and 5% of PEF patients. In these patients, simultaneous high-rate pacing from the RA and the coronary sinus (CS) terminated AF in 71% of patients, in whom the mean AF cycle length (CL) before A-ATP was longer (214 ± 23 vs. 177 ± 35 ms, p = 0.02) and became slower after A-ATP (234 ± 37 vs. 176 ± 32 ms, p < 0.01), compared to unsuccessful patients. The CoV of the DFs before A-ATP were lower in both RA (6.2 ± 2.0 vs. 15.3 ± 7.9, p = 0.02) and CS (11.0 ± 7.9 vs. 24.3 ± 9.3, p < 0.01) in successful patients. Conclusions: Simultaneous biatrial A-ATP from the RA and CS could terminate AF in patients with PAF. The predictors for successful termination include longer AF CL and higher AF stability.

Background: One of the reasons that high-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is used is due to the near immobility of thoracic structures. However, no study has quantified the movements of cardiac structures during HFJV compared with normal mechanical ventilation. Methods: After ethical approval and written informed consent, we included 21 patients scheduled for atrial fibrillation ablation in this prospective crossover study. Each patient was ventilated with both normal mechanical ventilation and HFJV. During each ventilation mode, displacements of the cardiac structure were measured by the EnSite Precision mapping system using a catheter placed in the coronary sinus. Results: The median [Q1–Q4] displacement was 2.0 [0.6–2.8] mm during HFJV and 10.5 [9.3–13.0] mm during conventional ventilation (p < 0.000001). Conclusion: This study quantifies the minimal movement of cardiac structures during HFJV compared to standard mechanical ventilation.

Background: Brugada syndrome (BrS) is associated with mutations in the cardiac sodium channel gene, SCN5A. However, genetic studies of patients with BrS with arrhythmic events have been limited. We sought to compare various clinical, ECG, and electrophysiological parameters according to SCN5A genotype in a large cohort of BrS probands with first arrhythmic event. Methods: Survey on Arrhythmic Events in Brugada Syndrome is a survey of 10 Western and 4 Asian countries, gathering 678 patients with BrS with first arrhythmic event. Only probands were included, and SCN5A genotype adjudicated. Patients without appropriate genetic data were excluded. Associations of genotype with clinical features were analyzed. Results: The study group comprised 392 probands: 92 (23.5%) SCN5A+ (44 pathogenic/likely pathogenic [P/LP] and 48 variants of unknown significance) and 300 (76.5%) SCN5A−. SCN5A missense variants and the patients hosting them were similar regardless of adjudication. A higher proportion of patients with P/LP were pediatric (SCN5A− (11.4% versus 3%, P =0.023). The proportion of females was higher among patients with P/LP compared with SCN5A − (18.2% versus 6.3%, P =0.013). P/LP probands were more likely to have a family history of sudden cardiac death compared with SCN5A − (41.9% versus 16.8%, P SCN5A− (87.5% versus 47%, P P P =0.009) were independent variables associated with P/LP genotype following logistic regression. Conclusions: The genetic basis of BrS has a complex relationship with gender, ethnicity, and age. Probands hosting a P/LP variant tended to experience their first arrhythmic event at a younger age and to have events triggered by fever compared with patients with SCN5A− . In addition, they were more likely to be White and to have family history of sudden cardiac death. Among females, a P/LP variant suggests an increased risk of being symptomatic. This association should be further studied on an ethnically specific basis in large prospectively collected international cohorts.

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is associated with mutations in the cardiac sodium channel gene,Survey on Arrhythmic Events in Brugada Syndrome is a survey of 10 Western and 4 Asian countries, gathering 678 patients with BrS with first arrhythmic event. Only probands were included, andThe study group comprised 392 probands: 92 (23.5%)The genetic basis of BrS has a complex relationship with gender, ethnicity, and age. Probands hosting a P/LP variant tended to experience their first arrhythmic event at a younger age and to have events triggered by fever compared with patients with

We aim to provide a critical appraisal of basic concepts underlying signal recording and processing technologies applied for (i) atrial fibrillation (AF) mapping to unravel AF mechanisms and/or identifying target sites for AF therapy and (ii) AF detection, to optimize usage of technologies, stimulate research aimed at closing knowledge gaps, and developing ideal AF recording and processing technologies. Recording and processing techniques for assessment of electrical activity during AF essential for diagnosis and guiding ablative therapy including body surface electrocardiograms (ECG) and endo- or epicardial electrograms (EGM) are evaluated. Discussion of (i) differences in uni-, bi-, and multi-polar (omnipolar/Laplacian) recording modes, (ii) impact of recording technologies on EGM morphology, (iii) global or local mapping using various types of EGM involving signal processing techniques including isochronal-, voltage- fractionation-, dipole density-, and rotor mapping, enabling derivation of parameters like atrial rate, entropy, conduction velocity/direction, (iv) value of epicardial and optical mapping, (v) AF detection by cardiac implantable electronic devices containing various detection algorithms applicable to stored EGMs, (vi) contribution of machine learning (ML) to further improvement of signals processing technologies. Recording and processing of EGM (or ECG) are the cornerstones of (body surface) mapping of AF. Currently available AF recording and processing technologies are mainly restricted to specific applications or have technological limitations. Improvements in AF mapping by obtaining highest fidelity source signals (e.g. catheter–electrode combinations) for signal processing (e.g. filtering, digitization, and noise elimination) is of utmost importance. Novel acquisition instruments (multi-polar catheters combined with improved physical modelling and ML techniques) will enable enhanced and automated interpretation of EGM recordings in the near future.

Commercially available health technologies such as smartphones and smartwatches, activity trackers and eHealth applications, commonly referred to as wearables, are increasingly available and used both in the leisure and healthcare sector for pulse and fitness/activity tracking. The aim of the Position Paper is to identify specific barriers and knowledge gaps for the use of wearables, in particular for heart rate (HR) and activity tracking, in clinical cardiovascular healthcare to support their implementation into clinical care. The widespread use of HR and fitness tracking technologies provides unparalleled opportunities for capturing physiological information from large populations in the community, which has previously only been available in patient populations in the setting of healthcare provision. The availability of low-cost and high-volume physiological data from the community also provides unique challenges. While the number of patients meeting healthcare providers with data from wearables is rapidly growing, there are at present no clinical guidelines on how and when to use data from wearables in primary and secondary prevention. Technical aspects of HR tracking especially during activity need to be further validated. How to analyse, translate, and interpret large datasets of information into clinically applicable recommendations needs further consideration. While the current users of wearable technologies tend to be young, healthy and in the higher sociodemographic strata, wearables could potentially have a greater utility in the elderly and higher-risk population. Wearables may also provide a benefit through increased health awareness, democratization of health data and patient engagement. Use of continuous monitoring may provide opportunities for detection of risk factors and disease development earlier in the causal pathway, which may provide novel applications in both prevention and clinical research. However, wearables may also have potential adverse consequences due to unintended modification of behaviour, uncertain use and interpretation of large physiological data, a possible increase in social inequality due to differential access and technological literacy, challenges with regulatory bodies and privacy issues. In the present position paper, current applications as well as specific barriers and gaps in knowledge are identified and discussed in order to support the implementation of wearable technologies from gadget-ology into clinical cardiology.

Background: Studies on the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in unselected patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) show that clinical characteristics and dosing practices differ per region, but lack data on edoxaban. Methods: With data from Edoxaban Treatment in routiNe clinical prActice for patients with AF in Europe (ETNA-AF-Europe), a large prospective observational study, we compared clinical characteristics (including the dose reduction criteria for edoxaban: creatinine clearance 15–50 mL/min, weight ≤60 kg, and/or use of strong p-glycoprotein inhibitors) of patients from Belgium and the Netherlands (BeNe) with those from other European countries (OEC). Results: Of all 13,639 patients in ETNA-AF-Europe, 2579 were from BeNe. BeNe patients were younger than OEC patients (mean age: 72.3 vs 73.9 years), and had lower CHA2DS2-VASc (mean: 2.8 vs 3.2) and HAS-BLED scores (mean: 2.4 vs 2.6). Patients from BeNe less often had hypertension (61.6% vs 80.4%), and/or diabetes mellitus (17.3% vs 23.1%) than patients from OEC. Moreover, relatively fewer patients in BeNe were prescribed the reduced dose of 30 mg edoxaban (14.8%) than in OEC (25.4%). Overall, edoxaban was dosed according to label in 83.1% of patients. Yet, 30 mg edoxaban was prescribed in the absence of any dose reduction criteria in 36.9% of 30 mg users (5.5% of all patients) in BeNe compared with 35.5% (9.0% of all patients) in OEC. Conclusion: There were several notable differences between BeNe and OEC regarding clinical characteristics and dosing practices in patients prescribed edoxaban, which are relevant for the local implementation of dose evaluation and optimisation. Trial registration: NCT02944019; Date of registration: October 24, 2016., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Aims Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and an important risk factor for stroke and heart failure. We aimed to conduct a systematic review of the literature and summarize the performance of mobile health (mHealth) devices in diagnosing and screening for AF. Methods and results We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Forty-three studies met the inclusion criteria and were divided into two groups: 28 studies aimed at validating smart devices for AF diagnosis, and 15 studies used smart devices to screen for AF. Evaluated technologies included smartphones, with photoplethysmographic (PPG) pulse waveform measurement or accelerometer sensors, smartbands, external electrodes that can provide a smartphone single-lead electrocardiogram (iECG), such as AliveCor, Zenicor and MyDiagnostick, and earlobe monitor. The accuracy of these devices depended on the technology and the population, AliveCor and smartphone PPG sensors being the most frequent systems analysed. The iECG provided by AliveCor demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity between 66.7% and 98.5% and 99.4% and 99.0%, respectively. The PPG sensors detected AF with a sensitivity of 85.0–100% and a specificity of 93.5–99.0%. The incidence of newly diagnosed arrhythmia ranged from 0.12% in a healthy population to 8% among hospitalized patients. Conclusion Although the evidence for clinical effectiveness is limited, these devices may be useful in detecting AF. While mHealth is growing in popularity, its clinical, economic, and policy implications merit further investigation. More head-to-head comparisons between mHealth and medical devices are needed to establish their comparative effectiveness., info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Aims To study the outcomes of cancer patients undergoing cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation. Methods and results De novo CIED implantations (2004–15; n = 2 670 590) from the National Inpatient Sample were analysed for characteristics and in-hospital outcomes, stratified by presence of cancer (no cancer, historical and current cancers) and further by current cancer type (haematological, lung, breast, colon, and prostate). Current and historical cancer prevalence has increased from 3.3% to 7.8%, and 5.8% to 7.8%, respectively, between 2004 and 2015. Current cancer was associated with increased adjusted odds ratio (OR) of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) [composite of all-cause mortality, thoracic and cardiac complications, and device-related infection; OR 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23–1.30], all-cause mortality (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.35–1.50), major bleeding (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.32–1.44), and thoracic complications (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.35–1.43). Differences in outcomes were observed according to cancer type, with significantly worse MACE, mortality and thoracic complications with lung and haematological malignancies, and increased major bleeding in colon and prostate malignancies. The risk of complications was also different according to CIED subtype. Conclusion The prevalence of cancer patients amongst those undergoing CIED implantation has significantly increased over 12 years. Overall, current cancers are associated with increased mortality and worse outcomes, especially in patients with lung, haematological, and colon malignancies whereas there was no evidence that historical cancer had a negative impact on outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The literature on fever-related arrhythmic events (AEs) in Brugada syndrome (BrS) is currently limited to few case reports and small series. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to describe the characteristics of fever-related AE in a large cohort of patients with BrS. METHODS: The Survey on Arrhythmic Events in Brugada Syndrome is a multicenter study on 678 patients with BrS with first AE documented at the time of aborted cardiac arrest (n = 426) or after prophylactic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation (n = 252). RESULTS: In 35 of 588 patients (6%) with available information, the AE occurred during a febrile illness. Most of the 35 patients were male (80%), Caucasian (83%), and proband (70%). The mean age at the time of AE was 29 ± 24 years (range 0.3-76 years). Most patients (80%) presented with aborted cardiac arrest and 6 (17%) with arrhythmic storm. Family history of sudden death, history of syncope, and spontaneous type 1 Brugada electrocardiogram were noted in 17%, 40%, and 71% of patients, respectively. Ventricular fibrillation was induced at electrophysiology study in 9 of 19 patients (47%). An SCN5A mutation was found in 14 of 28 patients (50%). The highest proportion of fever-related AE was observed in the pediatric population (age

Patients with drug-induced Brugada syndrome (BS) are considered at a lower risk than those with a spontaneous type I pattern. Nevertheless, they can present arrhythmic events.The purpose of this study was to investigate their clinical characteristics, long-term prognosis and risk factors.A consecutive cohort of 343 patients with drug-induced BS was included and compared with 78 patients with a spontaneous type I pattern.The mean age was 40.7 ± 18.3 years. Sudden cardiac death (SCD) was the clinical presentation in 13 (3.8%) and syncope in 86 (25.1%); 244 (71.1%) were asymptomatic. Patients with drug-induced BS were less frequently men (180 (52.5%) vs 63 (80.8%); P .01), were more frequently asymptomatic (244 (71.1%) vs 44 (56.4%); P.01), and had less ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) induced during electrophysiology study (41 (13.2%) vs 31 (42.4%); P.01). An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was implanted in 128 patients (37.3%). During a median follow-up of 62.5 months (interquartile range 28.9-115.6 months), 34 patients presented arrhythmic events. The event rate was 1.1% person-year (vs 2.3% person-year in patients with a spontaneous type I pattern; P.01). Presentation as SCD and inducible VAs were independent risk factors significantly associated with arrhythmic events (adjusted hazard ratio 22.0 and 3.5). Drug-induced BS was related to a better prognosis only in asymptomatic individuals.Drug-induced BS has a good prognosis if asymptomatic; however, SCD is possible. Clinical presentation as SCD and inducible VAs during electrophysiology study are independent risk factors for arrhythmic events. In asymptomatic patients, proband status and inducible VAs can help to identify patients at higher risk, but further evidence is needed.

SCOPUS: ed.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

The European Union (EU) General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes legal responsibilities concerning the collection and processing of personal information from individuals who live in the EU. It has particular implications for the remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). This report from a joint Task Force of the European Heart Rhythm Association and the Regulatory Affairs Committee of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommends a common legal interpretation of the GDPR. Manufacturers and hospitals should be designated as joint controllers of the data collected by remote monitoring (depending upon the system architecture) and they should have a mutual contract in place that defines their respective roles; a generic template is proposed. Alternatively, they may be two independent controllers. Self-employed cardiologists also are data controllers. Third-party providers of monitoring platforms may act as data processors. Manufacturers should always collect and process the minimum amount of identifiable data necessary, and wherever feasible have access only to pseudonymized data. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities have been reported concerning the security of transmission of data between a patient's device and the transceiver, so manufacturers should use secure communication protocols. Patients need to be informed how their remotely monitored data will be handled and used, and their informed consent should be sought before their device is implanted. Review of consent forms in current use revealed great variability in length and content, and sometimes very technical language; therefore, a standard information sheet and generic consent form are proposed. Cardiologists who care for patients with CIEDs that are remotely monitored should be aware of these issues. ispartof: EP-Europace vol:22 issue:11 pages:1742-+ ispartof: location:England status: Published online

SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Introduction: Nonpulmonary vein (non-PV) triggers of atrial fibrillation (AF) are targets for ablation but their localization remains challenging. The aim of this study was to describe P-wave (PW) morphologic characteristics and intra-atrial activation patterns and timing from multipolar coronary sinus (CS) and crista terminalis (CT) catheters that localize non-PV triggers. Methods and Results: Selective pacing from six right and nine left atrial common non-PV trigger sites was performed in 30 consecutive patients. We analyzed 12 lead ECG features based on PW duration, amplitude and morphology, and patterns and timing of multipolar activation for all 15 sites. Regionalization and then precise localization required criteria present in at least 70% of assessments at each pacing site. The algorithm was then prospectively evaluated by four blinded observers in a validation cohort of 18 consecutive patients undergoing the same pacing protocol and 60 consecutive patients who underwent successful non-PV trigger ablation. The algorithm for site regionalization included 1) negative PW in V1, ≥30 µV change in PW amplitude across the leads V1-V3, and PW duration ≤100 milliseconds in lead 2 and 2) unique intra-atrial activation patterns and timing noted in the multipolar catheters. Specific ECG and intra-atrial activation timing characteristics included in the algorithm allowed for more precise site localization after regionalization. In the prospective evaluation, the algorithm identified the site of origin for 72% of paced and 70% of spontaneous non-PV trigger sites. Conclusion: An algorithm based on PW morphology and intra-atrial multipolar activation pattern and timing can help identify non-PV trigger sites of origin., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in our societies (1). The rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque may result in the creation of a thrombus that can generate an acute infarction (2).

Background: The electrocardiographic and intracardiac activation features of left atrial roof-dependent macroreentrant flutter have been incompletely characterized. Methods: Patients post–pulmonary vein (PV) isolation with roof-dependent atrial flutter based on activation and entrainment mapping were included. ECG and coronary sinus activation were compared with mitral annular (MA) flutter. Results: The roof-dependent left atrial flutter circled the right PVs in 32 of 33 cases. Two forms of roof flutters were identified, posteroanterior, ascendant on posterior wall and descendant on anterior wall (n=24); and anteroposterior, ascendant on the anterior wall and descendent on the posterior wall (n=9). Both forms had positive large amplitude P waves in V 1 through V 2 with decreasing amplitude in V 3 through V 6 . Posteroanterior roof flutters had positive P wave in the inferior and negative P wave in leads I and aVL similar to counterclockwise MA flutter, but coronary sinus activation was simultaneous for roof and proximal to distal for counterclockwise. Anteroposterior roof flutters were similar to clockwise MA flutter with negative P in inferior leads and transition to flat or negative P in V 3 through V 6 . Coronary sinus activation time ≤39 ms identified roof versus MA flutter (sensitivity: 100% and specificity: 97%). Conclusions: Roof-dependent flutter around right PVs is more common than around left PVs. The ECG pattern for roof-dependent flutter around right PVs is similar to MA flutter with frontal plane axis dictated by septal activation. Roof-dependent flutter can be distinguished from MA flutter by more simultaneous rather than sequential coronary sinus activation.

Background: There is limited information on gender differences in patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) who experienced arrhythmic events (AEs). Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG), electrophysiological, and genetic characteristics between males and females in patients with BrS with their first AE. Methods: The multicenter Survey on Arrhythmic Events in BRUgada Syndrome collected data on the first AE in 678 patients with BrS including 619 males (91.3%) and 59 females (8.7%) aged 0.27–84 years (mean age 42.5 ± 14.1 years) at the time of AE occurrence. Results: After excluding pediatric patients, it was found that females were older than males (49.5 ± 14.4 years vs 43 ± 12.7 years, respectively; P =.001). Higher proportions of females were observed in the pediatric and elderly populations. In Asians, the male to female ratio for AEs was ≈9-fold higher than that in White. Spontaneous type 1 BrS ECG was associated with an earlier onset of AEs in pediatric females. A similar prevalence (≈65%) of spontaneous type 1 BrS ECG was present in males and females above the age of 60 years. Females less frequently showed spontaneous type 1 BrS ECG (41% vs 69%; P, SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Successful catheter ablation of scar-related atrial tachycardia depends on correct identification of the critical isthmus. Often, this is a represented by a small bundle of viable conducting tissue within a low-voltage area. It's identification depends on the magnitude of the signal/noise ratio. Ultra-high density mapping, multipolar catheters with small (eventually unidirectional) and closely-spaced electrodes improves low-voltage electrogram detection. Background noise limitation is also of major importance for improving the signal/noise ratio. Electrophysiological properties of the critical isthmus and the characteristics of the local bipolar electrograms have been recently demonstrated as hallmarks of successful ablation sites in the setting of scar-related atrial tachycardia., SCOPUS: re.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Background: Repolarization abnormalities in arrhythmogenic right ventricular (RV) cardiomyopathy and their relationship to ventricular tachycardia substrate are incompletely understood. Methods and Results: In 40 patients (29 men, mean age 38 years) with arrhythmogenic RV cardiomyopathy, we compared the extent and location of abnormal T (NegT) waves ≥1 mm in depth (n=32) and downsloping elevated ST segment (n=13), in ≥2 adjacent leads, to area and location of endocardial bipolar (3 (n=20) had larger low bipolar (31.4±18.9% versus 16.5±14.6%; P =0.008) and unipolar endocardial areas (66.0±19.6% versus 47.4±25.1%; P =0.013) and larger epicardial low bipolar area (56.0±19.3% versus 40.1±24.9%; P =0.030) compared with those with NegT waves limited to leads V 1 through V 3 (n=20). ECG location of NegT waves regionalized to location of substrate. Patients with downsloping elevated ST segment, all localized to leads V 1 and V 2 , had more unipolar endocardial abnormalities (71.8±18.1% versus 49.4±23.5%; P =0.005) involving outflow and mid-RV, compared with patients without downsloping elevated ST segment. Conclusions: In arrhythmogenic RV cardiomyopathy, abnormal electroanatomic mapping areas are proportional to extent of T-wave inversion on 12-lead ECG. Marked voltage abnormalities can exist without repolarization change. Downsloping elevated ST-segment pattern in V 1 and V 2 occurs with more unipolar endocardial voltage abnormality, consistent with more advanced transmural disease.

Aims This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy at midterm follow-up of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) using different devices, in real life in Belgium. Methods and results Between June 2009 and November 2016, 457 consecutive patients (63% male, 75±12 yrs, CHA2DS2-VASc 4±0.6, HAS-BLED 3.5±0.7) undergoing LAAO were included. Technical success was 97.1%. There were 19 periprocedural major adverse events (4.1%) including three deaths (0.6%), nine tamponades (1.9%), four major bleedings (0.8%) and two device embolisations (0.4%). Among patients successfully implanted having a complete follow-up (672 patient-years, median follow-up 370 days), the actual annual stroke rate was 1.2%, lower than the expected stroke risk of 4% (70% reduction). The observed bleeding rate was 2%, while the calculated risk was 3.7% (46% reduction). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a similar overall survival (93±2% and 87±3% versus 91±3% and 87±4%; p=0.35) and event-free survival (92±2% and 84±3% versus 88±3% and 80±5%; p=0.17) at one and two years, for the ACP/Amulet versus the WATCHMAN groups of patients, respectively. Conclusions The data from the Belgian left atrial appendage occlusion registry suggest that the procedure is effective and relatively safe in a real-world setting, using either the WATCHMAN or the ACP/Amulet device.

Dobutamine when used for stress echocardiography (DSE), it rarely causes transient atrio-ventricular (AV) block. We report a heart transplant patient with high cardiovascular risk who developed symptomatic advanced AV block during DSE which persisted after termination of dobutamine administration, necessitating pacemaker implantation. To our knowledge, this is the first published case of persistent high grade AV block in a heart transplant patient induced by DSE., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

BACKGROUND: Detailed information on the profile of patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) presenting their first arrhythmic event (AE) after prophylactic implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is limited. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were (1) to compare clinical, electrocardiographic, electrophysiologic, and genetic profiles of patients who exhibited their first documented AE as aborted cardiac arrest (group A) with profiles of those in whom the AE was documented after prophylactic ICD implantation (group B) and (2) to characterize group B patients' profile using the class II indications for ICD implantation established by HRS/EHRA/APHRS expert consensus statement in 2013. METHODS: A survey of 23 centers from 10 Western and 4 Asian countries enabled data collection of 678 patients with BrS who exhibited their AE (group A, n = 426; group B, n = 252). RESULTS: The first AE occurred in group B patients 6.7 years later than in group A (mean age 46.1 ± 13.3 years vs 39.4 ± 15.1 years; P < .001). Group B patients had a higher incidence of family history of sudden cardiac death and SCN5A mutations. Of the 252 group B patients, 189 (75%) complied with the HRS/EHRA/APHRS indications whereas the remaining 63 (25%) did not. CONCLUSION: Patients with BrS with the first AE documented after prophylactic ICD implantation exhibited their AE at a later age with a higher incidence of positive family history of sudden cardiac death and SCN5A mutations as compared with those presenting with aborted cardiac arrest. Only 75% of patients who exhibited an AE after receiving a prophylactic ICD complied with the 2013 class II indications, suggesting that efforts are still required for improving risk stratification.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Se sabe poco sobre los riesgos y los resultados del embarazo en mujeres con sindrome de Brugada. Por lo tanto, se evalua la influencia del embarazo en pacientes con sindrome de Brugada. Metodos Se realizo un analisis retrospectivo de todas las embarazadas con sindrome de Brugada. Se incluyo a 104 mujeres con un total de 219 partos. Resultados Hubo 15 abortos espontaneos; 1 nino fallecio subitamente durante la noche 3 meses despues del nacimiento; 6 embarazadas refirieron haber sufrido al menos un sincope durante el embarazo; en ninguna de las 3 mujeres a las que se implanto un desfibrilador automatico implantable antes del embarazo se registraron episodios arritmicos; 4 pacientes con antecedente de muerte subita cardiaca recuperada no sufrieron evento alguno durante el embarazo. De las 24 pacientes que habian sufrido sincopes cuando no estaban embarazadas, 18 se mantuvieron asintomaticas y 6 sufrieron sincope durante el embarazo. Durante el seguimiento (media, 298,9 dias; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 289,6-308,2) 2 mujeres recibieron descargas apropiadas. Conclusiones En este estudio unicentrico y retrospectivo, los eventos graves no fueron mas frecuentes durante el embarazo y el periodo periparto en las mujeres con sindrome de Brugada. La aparicion de sincopes durante el embarazo no se asocio a una peor evolucion en los periodos periparto y posparto ni durante el seguimiento. La tasa descrita de abortos espontaneos y muerte subita infantil debera investigarse en nuevos estudios para confirmar o descartar su asociacion con el sindrome de Brugada.

AIMS: Cryoballoon ablation (CRAB) as a modality for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is increasingly being accepted. We aim to study the long-term durability of CRAB in atrial fibrillation. METHODS: The first 51 consecutive patients with documented paroxysmal atrial fibrillation(PAF) who underwent CRAB at our institute were considered. Forty patients formed the study group. Successful PVI was achieved in all the patients. Patients were evaluated with Holter ECG recordings at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months and subsequent follow-up was biannual and based on the clinical status and physician discretion whether symptoms occurred. For the study purpose, a baseline ECG, a 24-h Holter and clinical evaluation were performed in all patients at final follow-up. RESULTS: A large 28-mm cryoballoon (CB) was used in 38 patients (95%), and the small 23-mm CB in the remaining two individuals (2%). The freedom from atrial fibrillation off-antiarrhythmic drug treatment (AAD) after a single procedure at a mean follow-up of 36.6 ± 4 months was 57.5% (23/40). Transient right phrenic nerve palsy was the most common complication. CONCLUSION: Single balloon size CRAB provides a durable atrial fibrillation-free-AAD-free survival in drug-resistant PAF patients over long-term follow-up with a success rate of 57.5% with a single procedure.

Aims Electrocardiographic documentation of symptomatic episodes of palpitations by means of traditional methods such as 24 h Holter monitoring (HM) or loop recorders is challenging. Patient-activated electrocardiography (ECG) recorders have been proved to be a useful tool in the diagnosis of arrhythmias in these patients. However, no comparison studies between the two techniques have been conducted. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of Holter ECG and a patient-activated event recorder (OMRON portable HeartScan ECG Monitor®) (HeartScan) in the detection of arrhythmias in patients with paroxysmal palpitations or dizziness suggestive of cardiac arrhythmias. Methods and results Patients with paroxysmal palpitations or dizziness were eligible for this study. All patients underwent an HM for 24 h and a 15-day HeartScan after the HM. Six hundred and twenty-five patients (48% male, mean age: 37 ± 11 years) were included in the study. All patients present with normal heart structure, normal baseline 12-lead ECG, and normal echocardiogram. Indications for ECG monitoring were palpitations in 577 patients (92.3%) and dizziness in 48 (7.7%). Holter monitoring offered a clinical diagnosis in 11 patients (1.8%). Conversely, HeartScan diagnosed the clinical arrhythmia in 558 individuals (89%). Detection of symptoms-related arrhythmias by means of HeartScan was significantly higher when compared with HM ( P < 0.01). Conclusion The studied system proved to be an efficient event recorder providing the diagnosis of the clinical arrhythmia in 89% of patients with paroxysmal palpitations or dizziness. Further studies are needed to confirm our results.

The clinical course and prognosis of Brugada syndrome (BS) in the elderly is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics, management, and prognosis of BS in an elderly population.

Propofol is an anesthetic drug with a very attractive pharmacokinetic profile, which makes it the induction agent of choice, especially in day-case surgery. Data on its potential proarrhythmic effects in patients with Brugada syndrome (BS) patients are still lacking. The aim of our study was to investigate whether a single dose of propofol triggered any adverse events in consecutive high-risk patients with BS.

This article describes the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of aspirin at doses used for cardiovascular prevention and provides specific management recommendations for optimal use in clinical practice. The paper highlights practical aspects related to antiplatelet therapy, including the optimal dose of aspirin, concomitant treatment with other NSAIDs, and strategies for the prevention of gastrointestinal toxicity. Specifically, we revise the benefits and hazards in different clinical settings to help the clinician in the decision-making process for individuals who have different risks for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal bleeding events.

Item does not contain fulltext AIMS: The ideal energy source needed to perform 're-isolation' of the pulmonary veins (PVs) during a repeat procedure for recurrence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been established yet. In this study we analysed the outcome of repeat procedure using radiofrequency (RF) energy after initial cryoballoon (CB) ablation at 2-year follow-up. METHODS AND RESULTS: Consecutive patients having undergone PVs isolation as repeat procedure for recurrent AF after an initial CB ablation were eligible for this study. Twenty-nine patients (22 male 76%, mean age: 55 +/- 17 years) were included. Mean time to repeat ablation was 12 +/- 7 months. Recovered PV conduction could be documented in a mean 2.45 +/- 0.7 veins in each patient. At mean 20.2 +/- 10.7 months follow-up, a total of 16 patients (55%) were free of AF at without antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs). An adjunctive 31% was AF free with previously ineffective AADs. A major complication with no permanent clinical sequelae occurred only in one patient. CONCLUSION: Repeat RF ablation following CB in case of AF recurrence is effective and safe.