Atrial Flutter Ablation

Atrial flutter is a macro–re-entrant atrial tachycardia that often coexists with or precedes atrial fibrillation and can cause significant symptoms and tachycardia-mediated cardiomyopathy. The Atrial Flutter Ablation session focuses on catheter-based strategies to interrupt flutter circuits, particularly typical cavotricuspid isthmus–dependent flutter, which is highly amenable to ablation. Participants will review electrophysiologic mechanisms, ECG recognition, and mapping techniques that distinguish typical from atypical flutter and guide targeted ablation. The session emphasizes stepwise, reproducible techniques that can be integrated into busy electrophysiology practices.

Many clinicians and fellows seek an cardiology conference to refine their procedural skills and better understand when and how to intervene. This session covers pre-procedural evaluation, including structural assessment, anticoagulation considerations, and identification of coexisting AF or structural heart disease. Attendees will learn how to position catheters, select energy settings, and create linear lesions across the cavotricuspid isthmus while monitoring for bidirectional block. Cases will highlight common challenges such as difficult isthmus anatomy, prior surgical scars, or atypical circuits arising after prior AF ablation.

Beyond basic technique, the session explores the broader context of catheter ablation for atrial flutter in comprehensive rhythm management. Participants will examine when standalone flutter ablation is appropriate versus when combined evaluation for AF ablation should be considered. The session addresses recurrence patterns, post-procedure monitoring, and the potential evolution from flutter to AF over time. Guidance is provided on post-ablation anticoagulation decisions, rhythm surveillance strategies, and symptom reassessment to ensure durable outcomes.

Safety, efficiency, and training are woven throughout the discussion. Attendees will gain insights into fluoroscopy reduction strategies, sedation choices, workflow optimization, and documentation standards. Practical tips for teaching flutter ablation to trainees, structuring case selection, and tracking outcomes are also shared. By the end, participants will be equipped with a clear, methodical approach to diagnosing and ablating atrial flutter, enhancing rhythm control and quality of life for affected patients.

Technical and Clinical Essentials in Flutter Ablation

Mechanism and ECG Recognition

  • Understanding re-entrant circuits and typical versus atypical flutter patterns.
  • Using surface ECG morphology and atrial activation to suspect specific circuits.

Mapping and Isthmus Assessment

  • Positioning catheters to visualize activation around the tricuspid annulus.
  • Confirming critical isthmus involvement before lesion delivery.

Lesion Creation and Validation

  • Delivering contiguous lesions across the cavotricuspid isthmus.
  • Demonstrating bidirectional block to confirm procedural success.

Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up

  • Monitoring rhythm, symptoms, and anticoagulation needs after ablation.
  • Recognizing and addressing subsequent AF or atypical flutters.

Benefits for Rhythm Programs and Patients

High Procedural Success Rates
Typical flutter ablation offers durable rhythm control in most patients.

Symptom Relief and Functional Improvement
Effective ablation reduces palpitations, fatigue, and exercise intolerance.

Reduced Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Eliminating rapid flutter prevents or reverses LV dysfunction in susceptible patients.

Efficient Electrophysiology Workflow
Well-structured protocols streamline lab time and resource use.

Enhanced Training Opportunities
Flutter ablation provides a foundational procedure for EP fellows.

 

Integration With AF Care Pathways
Coordinated strategies address both flutter and coexisting atrial fibrillation.

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