About this Research Topic

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an increasing arrhythmia disease; its pathophysiology is the subject of many studies. Rate and rhythm control along with stroke prophylaxis are the cornerstones of AF therapy. With the recent evolution of techniques, AF ablation is becoming the first therapeutic option in many centres worldwide. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for paroxysmal AF is now well established. Additional methods are now rising with non-PV trigger ablation: such as drivers, posterior wall isolation, epicardial ablation... Recognition of physiopathological signature for AF is the next challenge for all rythmologists. This will be achieved only by collecting different inputs such as imagery and mapping.

This Research Topic will focus on how to define a persistent AF ablation strategy and evaluate its outcome. What is the role of pre-ablation imagery (MRI, ultrasound, CT...) in elaborating an AF ablation strategy? Could post-ablation imagery be a tool to evaluate the success of an ablation? Furthermore, the different and complex mechanisms initiating and maintaining AF are still under investigation leading to the absence of consensus for ablation treatment. What are the roles played by the new mapping tools along with their algorithms regarding the outcome of ablation? The recent development of new ablation technologies/catheters such as Pulse Field Ablation and Radiofrequency balloon are bringing a lot of questions regarding long-term results of PVI and non-PV trigger ablation.

Led by an international team of experts, the topic editors encourage submission of all manuscript types accepted by Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine. Sub-themes for the Research Topic may include, but are not limited to:
1/ How imaging can contribute to the selection of an AF ablation strategy
2/ Role of mapping systems in guiding persistent AF ablation strategies (high-density mapping, non-contact mapping, omnipolar mapping...)
3/ Evaluation of ablation strategies in persistent AF: Posterior isolation, Epicardial ablation, Vein of Marschall, SVC, neuromodulation.

Keywords: Atrial fibrillation, High definition mapping, Catheter Ablation, Imaging, Stroke, Epicardial ablation

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