Effects of AV node ablation and pacemaker implantation in patients with depressed ejection fraction and chronic atrial fibrillation with normal ventricular response

ABSTRACT

Twelve patients with depressed ejection fraction and chronic atrial fibrillation with "normal" ventricular response underwent atrioventricular nodal radiofrequency ablation and implantation of a permanent VVIR pacemaker. Echocardiographic cardiac performance and symptoms were evaluated before and after the procedure. Left ventricular ejection fraction and fraction and fractional shortening improved. Also, the patients were significantly presenting less symptoms and increased sense of well-being aft ablation and pacemaker implantation. In conclusion, radiofrequency ablation of the atrioventricular node and implantation of a VVIR pacemaker seems to be a useful approach for patients with symptomatic chronic atrial fibrillation, "controlled" ventricular response and depressed ejection fraction.