High-power Short-duration Radiofrequency Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: A Clinical Review

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation is an established method of treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the optimal levels of power and duration required to achieve a successful ablation while avoiding complications are unknown. High-power short-duration (HPSD) ablation for the treatment of AF is already emerging as an alternative to conventional low-power long-duration (LPLD) procedures. Potential advantages of HPSD ablation include efficacy, safety and reduction in procedural and RF time, through the ability to create durable and geometrically favourable lesions. This article describes the development of HPSD ablation and reviews its place in the treatment landscape for AF.