Currently, radiofrequency ablation procedures are a curative measure for the treatment of atrial flutter. As the technology continues to improve, the success rate of treating atrial flutter is high.
Catheter radiofrequency ablation is now recognized as an important treatment for tachyarrhythmias and can be used to treat atrial flutter radically. Because of the limited efficacy of medications for atrial flutter, catheter ablation is the treatment of choice for atrial flutter that is symptomatic or causes hemodynamic instability.
Although catheter ablation for atrial flutter has a high success rate, there are some complications. Although the incidence is low, they are serious and include cardiac tamponade, pulmonary vein stenosis, atrioesophageal fistula, embolic complications and secondary atrial arrhythmias and injury to structures adjacent to the pulmonary veins. Preoperative preparation and contingency plans are required.