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It is estimated that about 38% of afibbers undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) experience recurrence of arrhythmias (AF, atrial flutter or left atrial tachycardia) within the first 3 months following the procedure (early recurrence). Experiencing early recurrences of atrial tachyarrhythmias (ERAT) does not necessarily indicate failure, since about 50% of those having ERAT go on to experience long-term freedom from atrial arrhythmias. A team of Canadian EPs suggests that ERAT may represent a transient and potentially reversible phenomenon related to the proarrhythmic effect of ablation – specifically inflammation and autonomic nervous system modification. This supports the use of the afibbers.org post-ablation care protocol. The EPs conclude that advanced age, hypertension, persistent or permanent AF, left atrial enlargement, decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, and incomplete pulmonary vein isolation are important predictors of ERAT. Also in this issue we report on a study of ablation outcomes in afibbers older than 80 years concluding that age is no obstacle to undergoing a safe and successful RF ablation; another study reports that nurse-led care of AF patients provides superior results when compared to usual care by a cardiologist, Australian researchers report that several electrophysiologic measurements in the pulmonary veins in lone afibbers are substantially different from those found in patients who have never experienced AF. Last, but certainly not least, I have decided to make “The AFIB Report” a bimonthly publication starting with the upcoming June/July issue. My workload has steadily been increasing to the point of it being excessive and I need some time off “to smell the roses”!! The yearly subscription fee for the 6 issues will be reduced to $29/year. Current subscribers will have their subscriptions extended to receive the 10 issues originally paid for. And finally, if you need to restock your supplements, please remember that by ordering through my on-line vitamin store you will be helping to defray the cost of maintaining the web site and bulletin board - your continuing support is much appreciated. Wishing you lots of NSR, Hans
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