Focusing on anatomy and procedural strategy for atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, this atlas uses pictures and schematic diagrams to show how to use intracardiac echo (ICE) to assess anatomy, guide ablation, and prevent complications during interventional procedures, pulmonary vein stenosis, and embolic events. The authors review the state of the art and background support in the use of ICE in interventional electrophysiology procedures and the anatomy of both the atrial and ventricular chambers. They discuss innovative indications in the EP laboratory, future technologies such...

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia in humans. An incredible worldwide effort from physicians, scientists and industry over the last decade has brought forth new insights and therapeutic tools. We are fortunate to have achieved a level of understanding about this complex disease that we can indeed cure some patients. While we proceed at full speed ahead looking for cures for the rest, we have taken this opportunity in the Medical Clinics of North America to reflect on how much we have learned and on the task that lies ahead. This issue opens with a historical...

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia, affecting approximately 2.3 million people in the US. One of the most serious side effects of AF is embolic stroke. Technology developed in the last 10 years has made AF treatable and potentially curable. This issue discusses many of the clinical issues in the management of AF, including cardioversion, anticoagulation, and ablation. Also included are current guidelines for treatment and a view of the future.

Cardiac electrophysiologists face many challenging situations in which there is no clear-cut answer about the best way to handle a particular clinical problem. This issue brings together articles on many such situations, presents arguments on both sides, and lets the reader conclude which is the best way to manage a particular patient.? Among the controversial and debatable topics included are how to handle device recalls, optimal timing for assessment of ICD efficacy, extraction o f broken leads, and anticoagulation therapy in device patients.

This issue of Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics devoted to syncope a disorder that is associated with increased mortality. Internationally recognized experts discuss the many causes of syncope, helping the clinician to distinguish life-threatening etiologies from benign ones.