Progress in Catheter Ablation

Enthusiasm from the past notable successes with RF ablation and the demand for better therapy for the complex but common arrhythmias has carried forward the progress of catheter ablation technology. In the past few years, there has been significant progress in the development of better mapping and ablative techniques. Such progress has resulted in a steady improvement in the success of ablation of more complex atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias as well as our knowledge of their anatomy and pathophysiology. However, enthusiasm for finding the ideal tools for the cure of complex arrhythmias has also resulted in a proliferation of changes in catheter designs, mapping apparatus, and heat energy sources. The clinician nowadays is faced with a wide and often confusing choice of new instruments and methods of ablation. There are few, if any, comparative studies involving the various new tools, nor is there any compilation of data on any specific new discovery. It is timely to provide ourselves with a review of available data on the progress of new technology in order to enhance our knowledge and to concentrate our efforts into the development of an ultimate practical and yet effective methodology. §The purpose of this publication is to provide a forum in which the authors can present their experience, even if only in its preliminary stages, in the respective field or technology. Various technological advancements in mapping and ablation as well as the improved understanding of the pathophysiology of the various arrhythmias are presented. The authors are selected for their interest and expertise on the subject. Each topic is presented in a concise form and with relevance to the development of new technology. The authors are encouraged to provide their opinion on the issues to stimulate further discussion and investigation. We hope that this publication will also stimulate further growth in this exciting field of cardiac electrophysiology.