Postinterventional medication after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: angiotensin receptor blockers or ACE inhibitors?

Abstract

Evaluation of: Al Chekakie MO, Akar JG, Wang F et al. The effects of statins and renin–angiotensin system blockers on atrial fibrillation recurrence following antral pulmonary vein isolation. J. Cardiovasc. Electrophysiol. 18, 942–946 (2007).

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) may modify the atrial substrate and isolate AF triggers but reversing and preventing further atrial remodeling should be attempted by specific postinterventional medication regimen. Inhibition of the renin–angiotensin system may be integral in interfering with structural remodeling of the atria during AF. Specifically, angiotensin receptor blockers – owing to their high local atrial effectiveness in blocking angiotensin-mediated pathways – may help to improve rhythm outcome after AF interventions. Optimum success of an aggressive AF intervention can only be achieved when patient selection for specific postinterventional pharmacological agents is optimized.

Keywords::

• angiotensin receptor blocker
• atrial fibrillation
• atrial fibrillation ablation
• catheter ablation
• postinterventional medication regimen
• renin–angiotensin system blocker

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.