List of contributors, ix

VeniceChart task force composition, xxxiii

List of abbreviations, xxxvii

1 Anatomy of structures relevant to atrial fibrillation ablation, 1

2 Pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation, 20

3 Techniques and technologies for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation, 35

4 Endpoints of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation, 61

5 Patient management pre-, during-, and postablation, 70

6 Periprocedural and long-term anticoagulation, 77

7 Periprocedural and late complications, 85

8 Short- and long-term efficacy of catheter ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation, 118

9 Indications to atrial fibrillation ablation and cost-effectiveness, 127

10 Clinical trials on atrial fibrillation/future perspectives, 137

11 Surgical approach/ablation, 161

12 Hospital equipment and facilities, personnel, training requirements, and competences, 176

Index, 184