Atrial fibrillation and conduction system disease: the roles of catheter ablation and permanent pacing

J Interv Card Electrophysiol. 2018 Aug;52(3):395-402. doi: 10.1007/s10840-018-0429-9. Epub 2018 Aug 3.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and diseases of the cardiac conduction system frequently co-exist, and interactions between these rhythm disturbances can adversely impact patient outcomes. Concurrent AF and sinus node disease often manifests as the tachy-brady syndrome wherein the underlying sinus node dysfunction can pose a challenge to AF management. Similarly, the combination of AF and left bundle branch block increases mortality in individuals with co-existent heart failure and hampers effective delivery of cardiac resynchronization therapy. A thorough understanding of the therapeutic interventions available for these conditions, including the role of catheter ablation and permanent pacemaker programming, is crucial for optimal management in affected patients.

Keywords: Atrial fibrillation; Heart failure; LBBB; Mortality; Sinus node disease; Stroke.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / diagnostic imaging
  • Atrial Fibrillation / epidemiology*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy*
  • Cardiac Conduction System Disease / diagnostic imaging
  • Cardiac Conduction System Disease / epidemiology*
  • Cardiac Conduction System Disease / therapy*
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial / methods*
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial / mortality
  • Catheter Ablation / methods*
  • Catheter Ablation / mortality
  • Comorbidity
  • Electrocardiography / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Assessment
  • Role
  • Survival Rate
  • Treatment Outcome