Abstract

Objective

Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) has emerged as an effective and safe treatment option in atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of patients undergoing CBA in our clinic.

Material and Methods

In this retrospective, single-center study, 153 patients who underwent successful CBA for symptomatic AF between 2012 and 2016 were included. Demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic data were collected. All patients were followed for a mean of 1184 days (745-1746 days) with scheduled electrocardiography, Holter, and clinical visits. Predictors of recurrence were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of the study population, 38% were female, with a mean age of 52.4±10.9 years. Mean procedure and fluoroscopy times were 69.5±1.7 min and 12.8±0.8 min, respectively. During follow-up, recurrence occurred in 39 patients (25.4%). Recurrence was significantly associated with female sex (p=0.001), older age (p=0.035), larger left atrial diameter (p<0.001), and persistent AF (p=0.003). In multivariate analysis, left atrial diameter (p=0.023) and persistent AF (p=0.014) were identified as independent predictors. The complication rate was low, and no severe disabling events occurred.

Conclusion

CBA is an effective and safe therapeutic option for maintaining sinus rhythm in AF patients. Persistent AF and increased left atrial size are independent predictors of long-term recurrence.