Can we predict vagal response to cryoballoon application using intracardiac recordings?

Abstract

The effects of cryoballoon (CB) ablation in non-pulmonary vein sites have not clearly elucidated. Herein we present a new definition method which helps to predict autonomic modification effect of CB application using atrial electrogram (EGM) characteristics and vagal responses (VRs). A 54-year-old man underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Both atria were mapped with the aid of electroanatomical mapping system prior to ablation procedure. The atrial EGMs were divided into 3 groups according to duration, amplitude, and number of deflections. The sites demonstrating fractionated pattern on 2.5 centimeters outside of pulmonary vein ostia were tagged on the mapping to predict the relationship between VR and EGM characteristics during CB application. CB application in the PV demonstrating intensive fractionated EGMs caused a significant VR. We concluded that our case may be starting point to understand mechanism of PVI induced VR during CB application.