Imaging and atrial fibrillation: the role of multimodality imaging in patient evaluation and management of atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, and is associated with an increased risk of cardiac morbidity and mortality. In this review, the role of multimodality imaging in the evaluation and treatment of AF is discussed in two main parts. First, an overview of the initial assessment of an AF patient is provided, including the role of different imaging techniques. Conditions that are associated with AF (coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and left ventricular hypertrophy), and the assessment with various imaging modalities, will be reviewed. Furthermore, left atrial size assessment and the screening for thrombus formation are addressed. Secondly, the role of imaging in the invasive treatment of AF with catheter ablation is reviewed. Issues that should be considered before the procedure including contra-indications and pulmonary vein and left atrial anatomy will be discussed. Furthermore, the integration of different imaging modalities during catheter ablation is explored. Finally, an overview of the role of imaging in the follow-up of patients treated with catheter ablation will be provided.