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Mitral isthmus ablation forms part of the electrophysiologist's armoury in the catheter ablation treatment of atrial fibrillation. It is well recognised however, that mitral isthmus ablation is technically challenging and incomplete ablation may be pro-arrhythmic, leading some to question its role. This article first reviews the evidence for the use of adjunctive mitral isthmus ablation and its association with the development of macroreentrant perimitral flutter. It then describes the practical techniques of mitral isthmus ablation, with particular emphasis on the assessment of bi-directional mitral isthmus block. The anatomy of the mitral isthmus is also discussed in order to understand the possible obstacles to successful ablation. Finally, novel techniques which may facilitate mitral isthmus ablation are reviewed.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/s0972-6292(16)30522-8

Type

Journal article

Journal

Indian Pacing Electrophysiol J

Publication Date

07/2012

Volume

12

Pages

152 - 170

Keywords

ablation, atrial fibrillation, mitral isthmus