Follow-up

In this study, a 3-month blanking period was applied. AF recurrence was defined as the occurrence of AF, AFL, or AT lasting at least 30 s as confirmed by electrocardiography or Holter monitoring. Early recurrence of AF (ERAF) was defined as AF recurrence within a 3-month blanking period, and LRAF was defined as AF recurrence after the blanking period. After discharge, the patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months and once yearly thereafter, and BP measurement, 12-lead surface electrocardiography, 24-hour Holter monitoring, and echocardiography were performed. In addition, the patients were instructed to return to the outpatient clinic for follow-up when they had palpitations or other symptoms at any time. If AF recurrence was observed, AADs were first administered to the patients to restore and maintain SR, and repeat ablation was considered after the blanking period.