Follow-up:
Post procedural follow up was according to standard of care. The heart
rhythm service routinely followed patients at three months post
procedure. 12-lead ECG and 48-hour Holter monitor were ordered routinely
as standard of care at 3 months in all AFL patients. Control patients
had routine 12 lead ECG, and monitoring was ordered if symptoms
recurred. Patients with recurrence of typical atrial flutter were
offered a repeat procedure, while patients diagnosed with new atrial
fibrillation were managed with either medical therapy or a left atrial
ablation at the discretion of the electrophysiologist and considering
patient’s wishes. Recurrence of SVT prompted an offer of repeat
ablation. Follow-up data were collected retrospectively by chart review
and by contacting physician offices.