Evaluation of Changes in Mental Health Parameters Following Ablation in Patients Treated with Pulmonary Vein Isolation

Aim: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and impaired sleep quality. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established ablation therapy for AF, yet its effects on mental health parameters remain less well explored. This study aimed to evaluate changes in anxiety, depression, and sleep quality before and after PVI. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 117 patients undergoing PVI for AF were evaluated using validated questionnaires before and after ablation. Mental health parameters included the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Pre- and post-procedure scores were compared to assess changes in psychological well-being. Percentage change (Δ) in scores was calculated as [(post–pre)/pre] × 100. Associations between Δ values and baseline demographic, clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic parameters were examined. Results: The mean BAI score significantly decreased from 18.2 ± 5.1 at baseline to 15.0 ± 4.5 post-ablation, corresponding to a 20% reduction (p < 0.001). Similarly, a 19% decrease in BDI score was observed (p < 0.01). A 17% improvement in PSQI score was seen (p < 0.05). Greater improvements were noted in patients without coronary artery disease, while those with arrhythmia recurrence showed less benefit. In addition, patients with reduced baseline ejection fraction and enlarged ventricular dimensions experienced more pronounced psychological recovery. Conclusion: PVI not only restores sinus rhythm but also improves psychological well-being and sleep quality in AF patients. The magnitude of benefit is influenced by comorbidities, arrhythmia recurrence, and baseline cardiac function, with the most pronounced improvements observed in patients with impaired ventricular function and without CAD.