BACKGROUNDRadiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) has developed rapidly, and is a commonly performed ablation in many major hospitals throughout the world, due to its satisfactory results. The aim of this study was to detect the effect of RFCA on C-reactive protein (CRP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and echocardiograph in patients with persistent and permanent AF.

METHODSA total of 120 patients (71 males, mean age (50.8 ± 12.0) years) with persistent and permanent AF undergoing RFCA under guidance of the Carto merge technique were studied. Left atrial diameter (LAD), right atrial diameter (RAD), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), CRP, and BNP were observed 3, 6 and 12 months after RFCA and compared with results before RFCA. The recurrence of atrial arrhythmias was observed 3 and 12 months after the procedure.

RESULTSCompared with that before RFCA, LAD and RAD decreased and LVEF increased significantly after RFCA. Meanwhile, the levels of CRP and BNP were reduced significantly at 3, 6, and 12 months after RFCA (P < 0.05). In the non-recurrent patients, LVEF was increased significantly compared with the recurrent patients at 3, 6, and 12 months after RFCA (P < 0.05). CRP and BNP levels were decreased significantly in the non-recurrent patients compared with the recurrent patients at 3, 6, and 12 months after RFCA (P < 0.05). After one or two applications of RFCA, during a follow-up of 12 months, 12 patients (10.0%) had AF, 10 patients (8.3%) had atrial flutter, and 5 patients had atrial tachycardia (4.2%).

CONCLUSIONSConversion of AF to sinus rhythm by RFCA, has been shown to reduce LA size and improve LVEF. It can also significantly decrease the levels of CRP and BNP in patients with persistent and permanent AF and reduce the risk of inflammation and developing heart failure.