1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meenakshi Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
2Arulmigu Meenakshi College of Nursing, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
3Department of Periodontology, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
4Meenakshi College of Nursing, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
5Meenakshi College of Occupational Therapy, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
6Meenakshi College of Physiotherapy, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research
Background: The modifiable risk factors of obesity, hypertension, sleep apnea, diabetes and lifestyle behavior have contributed a lot to the long-term success of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation; it is becoming an established rhythm-control approach. It is still not known how patient-level of risk-factors changes after ablation are maintained and the way they relate to the long-term rhythm outcomes.
Objective: To compare longitudinal changes in risk-factor modification after AF ablation and identify their relationship with arrhythmia recurrence during prolonged follow-up.
Method: The research was a longitudinal cohort study that recruited adults that have undergone a first-time AF ablation and tracked them over the period of 36 months. At a baseline level and at follow-ups (after a certain time), risk-factor parameters were measured as such: body mass index, blood pressure, glycemic control, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and sleep apnea control. Recurrence of AF was the main parameter recorded. The secondary outcomes were the reduction of burden and repeat ablation rates.
Results: Whether the improvements in at least three of the risk-factor domains were sustained, there was a significantly lower rate of AF recurrence than a very small or no changes. Patients who obtained the reduction of weight, better blood pressure regulation, and regular sleep apnea therapy demonstrated the highest beneficial outcome.
Conclusion: Risk-factor change process is significantly linked with better rhythm outcome after AF ablation. A structured risk-factor management post-ablation care could be a means of improving long-term treatment.
Keywords: Risk factor modification, AF ablation, hypertension control, atrial fibrillation, rhythm control
How to cite this article: Shanma E, Kumar DR, Ravi N, Cathrine TR, Sundareswaran D, Parthasarathy R. Risk Factor Modification After AF Ablation: A Longitudinal Cohort Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(10s): 216-221; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.10s.32
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None