Radiofrequency ablation in the pulmonary veins for paroxysmal, drug-resistant atrial fibrillation.

For select individuals with chronic, drug-resistant, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, who have failed pharmacologic suppression or mechanical cardioversion, radiofreqency ablation of ectopic foci in and around the ostia of the pulmonary veins can restore normal sinus rhythm, prevent recurrence of the arrhythmia, and improve the quality of life. Radiofrequency ablation of these sites is an evolving process as improvements are made in the catheters and procedure. Major complications include pulmonary vein stenosis, stroke, and cardiac tamponade.