Synergistic Effect of the CHADS-VASc Score and Left Atrial Epicardial Adipose Tissue Volume on Predicting Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Ablation.

Objective: The CHADS-VASc score and left atrial epicardial adipose tissue (LA-EAT) volume have been identified as potential risk factors for atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after ablation. However, there is currently a lack of research specifically examining the interaction between these two AF risk factors. This study aims to evaluate the predictive potential of combining CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume in predicting recurrence in patients with AF who undergo ablation.

Methods: The study encompassed a cohort of 507 patients who underwent ablation for AF finally. Follow-up assessments were conducted 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after ablation, including clinical evaluation, a 12-lead ECG, and 24-hour Holter monitoring. Recurrence was characterized by symptomatic or asymptomatic AF episodes or atrial tachycardia lasting more than 30 seconds, as evidenced by any ECG following the 3-month BP. Patients were stratified into groups based on the defined cut-off values of CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume. Cox regression analysis was employed to estimate the risk factor of AF recurrence after ablation. The interaction between CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume was assessed using the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion (AP), and synergy index (SI).

Results: 140 patients experienced AF recurrence after ablation during the follow-up period. Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume were independent risk factors for AF recurrence. Patients with higher CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume exhibited a higher risk of recurrence than those with lower score and volume. Furthermore, a significant synergistic interaction existed between CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume. The LA-EAT volume and clinical model combination improved the predictive value reclassification, and discriminant abilities improved significantly.

Conclusion: There is a significant additive interaction between CHADS-VASc score and LA-EAT volume, with the coexistence of both factors significantly increasing the risk of AF recurrence after ablation.