Open AccessAtrial Fibrillation Ablation Using Vein of Marshall Ethanol Infusion
Author(s) -
Adi Lador,
Miguel Valderrábano
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
methodist debakey cardiovascular journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1947-6094
pISSN - 1947-6108
DOI - 10.14797/zqme8581
Subject(s) - medicine , pulmonary vein , atrial fibrillation , cardiology , ablation , catheter ablation , catheter , vein , surgery
Catheter ablation has become a cornerstone treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). Pulmonary vein isolation is the accepted approach for paroxysmal AF ablation, but it is less effective for persistent AF. The vein of Marshall (VOM) is located in the epicardial left atrium and can be a source of AF triggers as well as a tract for autonomic nerves. It directly communicates with the underlying myocardium, including the left atrial ridge and the posterior mitral isthmus. This review discusses the latest evidence regarding the mechanisms, procedural aspects, and outcomes of VOM ethanol infusion when used as an adjunct to pulmonary vein isolation in patients with persistent AF.