This study aims at investigating the role of autonomic modulation of AF. Therefore, totally thoracoscopic PV isolation with additional ablation of ganglionated plexi (GP) will be studied against PV isolation alone. Two groups of patients (paroxysmal AF with or without structural heart disease and persistent AF with or without heart disease) of 110 patients each will be studied.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common chronic arrhythmia in man. Its treatment consists of control of ventricular rate or attempts to restore sinus rhythm. For symptomatic patients who fail on anti arrhythmic drugs, isolation of the pulmonary veins (PV), with additional linear left atrial lesions when appropriate, can cure AF. At least in some, but probably in many patients, the autonomous nervous system plays a pivotal role in the initiation and perpetuation of AF. The autonomic ganglia, or ganglionated plexi (GP) are located within the epicardial fat pads of the left atrium. This study aims at investigating the additional value of ablation of those GPs in addition to totally thoracoscopic PV isolation.

Objective of the study:

This study aims at investigating the role of autonomic modulation of AF. Therefore, totally thoracoscopic PV isolation with additional ablation of ganglionated plexi (GP) will be studied against PV isolation alone. Two groups of patients (paroxysmal AF with or without structural heart disease and persistent AF with or without heart disease) of 110 patients each will be studied.

Study design:

This is a single center, randomized single blinded study

Study population:

Any patient with an indication for non-pharmacological treatment of symptomatic paroxysmal or persistent AF can enter the study. An indication for non-pharmacological treatment exists when patients are symptomatic and have failed on at least one anti-arrhythmic drug. Symptoms of AF include, but are not limited to palpitations, reduced exercise capacity, exertional dyspnea, and fatigue. Failure of anti-arrhythmic therapy is defined as 1) recurrence of AF despite the use of an anti-arrhythmic drug in a clinical efficacious dosing or 2) adverse effects of medication that is not acceptable to the patient.

Intervention (if applicable):

In patients randomized to additional GP ablation, the following procedures will be carried out during the totally thoracoscopic procedure in addition to the PV isolation (and extended lesion set when appropriate): The left atrial autonomic GPs are localized within the epicardial fat pads and subsequently ablated with radiofrequency current delivered through an ablation probe (AtriCure Isolator™ Transpolar™ pen).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age is between 18 and 80 years
• AF is symptomatic, paroxysmal or persistent (hence not long standing persistent)
• In case of persistent AF, successful cardioversion within the last 12 months (cardioversion will be considered failed if AF recurs within 48 hours)
• AF was documented on ECG, Holter or pacemaker electrogram at least once in the 6 months preceding presentation
• At least one class I or III antiarrhythmic drug in standard dosage has failed or is not tolerated
• Legally competent and willing and able to sign informed consent
• Willing and able to adhere to the follow up visit protocol
• Life expectancy of ≥2 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior catheter ablation for AF within the preceding 4 months
• Refusal to take antiarrhythmic medication
• Myocardial infarction (defined as CKMB> twice upper limit of normal) within the preceding 2 months
• NYHA class IV/IV heart failure symptoms, or class II-III with a recent decompensation requiring hospitalization or left ventricular ejection fraction<35% (unless related to or aggravated by AF).
• Cerebrovascular accident (defined as any sudden neurological deficit lasting longer than 24 hours, with or without pathological changes on the CT cerebrum) with the preceding 6 months
• Known and documented carotid stenosis>80%
• Planned cardiac surgery for other purposes than AF (alone)
• Evidence of active infection (as evidenced by increased white blood cell count, elevated CRP level or fever >38,5 °C)
• Unable to undergo TEE
• Pregnancy or of childbearing potential without adequate contraception
• Requirement of antiarrhythmic medication for ventricular arrhythmias
• Presence of intracardiac mass or thrombus (Discovery of any thrombus or intracardiac mass after signing of the informed consent will result in withdrawal of the patient from the study)
• Co-morbid condition that possesses undue risk of general anesthesia or port access cardiac surgery (in the opinion of the investigator)
• History of previous radiation therapy on the thorax
• Circumstances that prevent follow-up (no permanent home or address, transient, etc.)