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Prevention of embolic stroke by catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation
Author(s) -
Stöllberger C.,
Schneider B.,
WinklerDworak M.,
Finsterer J.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
european journal of neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.881
H-Index - 124
eISSN - 1468-1331
pISSN - 1351-5101
DOI - 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2008.02341.x
Subject(s) - medicine , atrial fibrillation , radiofrequency ablation , ablation , catheter ablation , cardiology , stroke (engine) , embolism , radiofrequency catheter ablation , embolic stroke , stroke risk , ischemic stroke , ischemia , mechanical engineering , engineering
Background and purpose: Radiofrequency‐catheter‐ablation of atrial fibrillation is now commonly performed. Aim of this short review is to summarize questions and uncertainties concerning radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation with respect to therapeutic mechanisms, long‐term efficacy and stroke‐prevention. Results: The majority of atrial fibrillation patients is too old for radiofrequency ablation. Candidates for radiofrequency ablation belong to a subgroup with a low embolic risk. The radiofrequency ablation procedure itself may increase the embolic risk, and at present it is uncertain how long this embolic risk persists after the procedure. Conclusion: We doubt if radiofrequency ablation prevents embolism in atrial fibrillation.