Q: Is ablation suitable for all atrial fibrillation (AF) patients?

A: Only patients with paroxysmal, or intermittent AF, or those with recent persistent AF are suitable for laser balloon ablation. Patients with more longstanding AF require more extensive ablation procedures that are performed with radiofrequency ablation catheters.

If AF returns after the first procedure, you will almost certainly be offered another attempt and then the chances of a cure would be higher.

Dr Oliver Segal, Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation