Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation of common atrial flutter requires the creation of a complete transmural ablation line across cavotricuspid region to achieve bidirectional conduction block. Irrigated tip catheters facilitate rapid achievement of this block by creation larger and deeper lesions.
The EASTHER registry was organized to collect data about the efficacy of the procedure in small and middle volume centres in Central and Eastern Europe, all using THERMOCOOL* catheter technology. Methods: Easther is a prospective registry (April 2002-February 2003). 133 consecutive patients with common atrial flutter were enrolled.
These results are comparable with the literature data published. Conclusions: Irrigated tip catheters are effective and safe in ablation of common atrial flutter.
This technology helps to accelerate and facilitate achievement of bi-directional isthmus block. Most of procedures were terminated to one hour in experienced centers in France as early as 2002.
Procedures not exceeding one hour are feasible in case of spreading this method as method of first choice with gaining of experiences in centres of Middle and Eastern Europe.