Catheter ABlation vs ANtiarrhythmic Drug Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation CABANA trial

Radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) is an "economically attractive" option compared with drug therapy, according to a new cost-effectiveness analysis of the CABANA trial. CABANA missed its primary endpoint—radiofrequency ablation did not significantly reduce all-cause mortality, disabling stroke, serious bleeding, or cardiac arrest when compared with drug therapy in 2,204 patients with new-onset or undertreated AF.

However, there were significant improvements in quality of life, freedom from AF recurrence, and AF burden.

Economic considerations for catheter ablation to improve quality of life or reduce symptom burden are important in this era of escalating healthcare costs and value-based care.