Left atrial functions in long term after catheter ablation of premature ventricular complexes

A. Tutuncu, S. Kanat

Department of Cardiology, University of Health Sciences, Bursa Postgraduate Hospital, Bursa, Turkey. tutuncuahm@yahoo.com

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• Cardiology

OBJECTIVE: Premature ventricular complex (PVC) ablation has been shown to improve left ventricle (LV) diastolic function and left atrial (LA) reverse modeling, especially in the short term. In the present study, PVC ablation via radiofrequency catheter (RFCA) was evaluated with respect to its long-term effects on LA size and dynamic functions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 71 patients (age 43.49±12.8 years, 37 men [52%]) with high-burden (21% mean burden) PVCs who were treated with RFCA were included in this retrospective study. The effects of RFCA on three characteristics – LV systolic functions, LV diastolic dysfunctions and mechanical effects pertaining to the LA – were examined by echocardiography at baseline and at 3 months and 18 months after the procedure.

RESULTS: Advancement in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was seen on long-term follow-up (LVEF baseline 53.01; 3rd month 54.55; 18th month 58.02; p<0.001). LA function gradually improved after RFCA. The LA volume index was significantly decreased after RFCA (baseline 18.15±2.89; 3 months 17.11±2.71; 18 months 16.67±2.61; p<0.001). The LA passive emptying fraction was still increasing over long-term follow-up (baseline 33.33; 3rd month 37.11; 18th month 40.91; p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, in patients with or without apparent cardiomyopathy, RFCA was shown to successfully eliminate PVCs and improve LA functions in the long term.

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