Summary

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as an effective therapy for patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) [Stabile G et al. Eur Heart J 2006], and at least 1 international consensus document concludes that ablation is an acceptable first option for patients with symptomatic PAF [Caulkins H et al. Europace 2012]. However, limited data are available comparing this technology with antiarrhythmic drug therapy as first-line treatment for patients with PAF. This article discusses 24-month outcomes from the Medical Antiarrhythmic Treatment or Radiofrequency Ablation in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation trial [MANTRA-PAF; Cosedis Nielsen J et al. N Engl J Med 2012].