Role of Echocardiography in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Citation: Andrew C. Y. To MBChB, Allan L. Klein

Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an increasingly adopted strategy for difficult-to-manage patients with atrial fibrillation. Echocardiography is the key imaging modality to assess left atrialstructure and function. In this review, the role of echocardiography in atrial fibrillation ablationbefore, during and after ablation is discussed. Currently established roles of echocardiography inpatient selection pre-ablation and peri-procedural guidance, as well as newer echocardiographic techniques including the assessment of atrial mechanics are reviewed in the context of atrial fibrillation ablation.