End point and follow-up
atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia
RECURRENCE, RECURRENCE, ATRIAL TACHYCARDIA, ATRIAL FLUTTER, INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE
Recurrence of AF post-procedure was defined as the first episode of any type of atrial tachycardia, including but not limited to atrial flutter and AF, sustained for more than 30 s after the blanking period (BP). BP refers to the first three months post-procedure. In this period, any occurrence of atrial tachycardia was identified as early recurrence of AF (ERAF), which may relate to inflammatory response induced by electrical burn or freezing injury, rather than a true relapse [After the catheter ablation procedure, the outpatient follow-up was scheduled at one, three, six and every six months thereafter. At each visit, atrial tachycardia episodes were captured and confirmed by 12-lead electrocardiogram, Holter or ambulatory monitors. Communication with patients was established through online or telephone follow-up to ensure timely feedback on patients or inquire about the control of AF.