Ethanol Infusion in the Vein of Marshall for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Evidence From Randomized Controlled Trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF), yet outcomes remain suboptimal in persistent AF patients. Ethanol infusion in the vein of Marshal (VoM), an embryological remnant implicated in AF pathogenesis, may enhance ablation efficacy.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of VoM ethanol infusion in patients with persistent AF.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing CA with versus without VoM ethanol infusion in patients undergoing first-time ablation of persistent AF. The primary endpoint was freedom from any atrial arrhythmia in a 12-month follow-up.

Results

Four RCTs including 1045 patients were analyzed (VoM + CA-535

SUBMITTER: Saleiro C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12614149 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature