This randomized, single-blind, non-inferiority trial compared a novel dual-energy lattice-tip catheter ablation system to a conventional radiofrequency ablation system in 420 patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). The primary effectiveness endpoint (freedom from acute procedural failure, repeat ablation, arrhythmia recurrence, drug initiation/escalation, or cardioversion after a 3-month blanking period) was achieved in 73.8% of patients in the investigational arm versus 65.8% in the control arm (P<0.0001 for non-inferiority). Major complications were similar between groups. The investigational system showed significantly shorter procedural times. The dual-energy catheter demonstrated non-inferior safety and effectiveness for treating persistent AF.

Elad Anter, Moussa Mansour, Devi G. Nair, Dinesh Sharma, Tyler L. Taigen, Petr Neuzil, Erich L. Kiehl, Josef Kautzner, Jose Osorio, Stavros Mountantonakis, Andrea Natale, John D. Hummel, Anish K. Amin, Usman R. Siddiqui, Doron Harlev, Paul Hultz, Shufeng Liu, Birce Onal, Khaldoun G. Tarakji, Vivek Y. Reddy