Effects of radiofrequency catheter ablation on regional myocardial blood flow. Possible mechanism for late electrophysiological outcome.

Abstract

RF catheter ablation not only results in a marked reduction in blood flow within the acute pathological lesion but also causes reduced flow beyond the borders of the acute lesion because of microvascular endothelial cell injury. The progression or resolution of tissue injury within the region beyond the border of the pathological lesion may explain the late electrophysiological effects of RF ablation.