3 Further information

3.1 NICE has published interventional procedures guidance on microwave ablation for atrial fibrillation and cryoablation for atrial fibrillation. NICE is also currently developing a guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation [now published as Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management].

3.2 NICE has recently been notified of radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation [guidance now published as Percutaneous radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation].

Sources of evidence

The evidence considered by the Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee is described in the following document.

Interventional procedure overview of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation in association with other cardiac surgery, July 2004.

Information for patients

NICE has produced information on this procedure for the patients and carers. It explains the nature of the procedure and the guidance issued by NICE, and has been written with patient consent in mind.