Difference in demand for analgesic and sedative medication according to the type of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation

Background: Our aim was to determine if there is a difference in demand for analgesic and sedative medication according to the type of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). Material and methods: We collected data from protocols of 1144pts, who underwent ablation of AF. We excluded 275pts, at most due to electrocardioversion during the procedure. We divided them into 4 groups: cryoballoon ablation group (CB, n = 101), single-point radiofrequency ablation group (RFth-, n = 541), single-point radiofrequency ablation group with thermocool catheter (RFth+, n = 156) and Multielectrode Pulmonary Vein Ablation Catheter group (PVAC, n = 71). We used fentanyl and midazolam for pain control. The dose was adjusted by the operator, accord-ing to patients’ request. Results: The median dose of fentanyl 0.04 mg (0.00-0.08) and midazolam 1.00 mg (0.00-2.00) in CB group was lower than in other groups (p < 0.001). The median dose of fentanyl 0.12 mg (0.08-0.17) was lower in RFth- than in in RFth+ group: 0.15 mg (0.1-0.2) (p < 0.001). The demand for analgesia was higher when PVAC was used, with median dose of fentanyl 0.15 mg (0.1-0.2) (p < 0.0024). Conclusions: The demand for analgesic/sedative medication was lower among patients who underwent CB. Among those who underwent RF ablation it was higher in groups with thermocool and multielectrode catheters.