Computed Tomography of Pulse-Field Ablation

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) reduces left atrial (LA) volume post-ablation, a phenomenon termed reverse atrial remodeling, indicative of successful reversal of atrial cardiomyopathy progression. In contrast, pulse field ablation (PFA), a novel non-thermal technology, offers a promising efficacy and safety profile without inducing persistent atrial fibrosis. While RFCA-associated reverse atrial remodeling is well-documented, it remains uncertain whether PFA, operating on a non-thermal paradigm, also promotes this remodeling, which would enhance its physiological relevance in AF treatment. Additionally, RFCA studies show that LA wall thickness at the pulmonary vein (PV) antrum can predict PV reconnection and arrhythmia recurrence, but whether PFA affects LA thinning or enables similar predictions from post-treatment computed tomography (CT) scans is unknown. Moreover, epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), strongly linked to LA abnormalities and AF recurrence, can be quantified via CT, yet the impact of PFA on LA EAT remains unexplored. Finally, PFA's versatility, particularly in isolating the LA posterior wall (LAPW) in non-paroxysmal AF, raises questions about its effect on posterior wall thinning or EAT changes, factors associated with post-ablation recurrence