Epicardial Fat Pads Ablation During Coronary Surgery

Ablation of the Epicardial Fat Pads to Treat Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation During Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

The aim of this prospective randomized study was to assess the efficacy of ablation of the ganglionated plexi localized in the epicardial fat pads for preventing recurrences of atrial tachyarrhythmia in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.

Inclusion Criteria:

• History of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (recurrent episodes for at least 1 years, with 2 documented episodes over the last 6 months)
• Indication for cardiac surgery (e.g. coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repair/replacement) according to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines for cardiac surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

Previous heart surgery or atrial fibrillation ablation procedure Emergency coronary artery bypass grafting Unstable angina or heart failure Persistent atrial fibrillation Planned maze procedure or pulmonary vein isolation Unwillingness to participate