Atrial Fibrillation Treatment: Catheter Ablation Reduces Long-Term Risk of Stroke and Heart Failure

Recent research published in the nnals of Internal Medicine highlights that catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly lowers the risk of ischemic stroke, mortality, and hospitalization due to heart failure beyond the initial 30 days post-procedure. The study, led by Dr. Bryce Montane from Washington University in St. Louis, analyzed data from randomized controlled trials comparing catheter and surgical ablation with no ablation, with a follow-up period of at least one month.

Findings reveal that catheter ablation decreases the relative risk of ischemic stroke after the first month, with reductions also observed in overall mortality and heart failure-related hospitalizations (relative risks 0.63, 0.73, and 0.68 respectively). However, the data indicated an increased risk of ischemic stroke within the first 30 days post-ablation, with a relative risk of 6.81, suggesting a higher chance of stroke in the immediate post-procedure period. Nonetheless, the longer-term benefits are substantial, as evidenced by the lowered risks after the initial month.

In comparison, surgical ablation was associated with reduced risks of ischemic stroke and strokes from any cause. Despite these positive outcomes, the authors note that benefits for other health outcomes remain uncertain. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of considering the timing of ablation procedures and their long-term advantages for managing atrial fibrillation.

The research underscores that catheter ablation is an effective intervention for reducing critical cardiovascular risks associated with atrial fibrillation, impacting patient survival and quality of life positively over time.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-fib-catheter-ablation-ischemic-days.html