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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
09:17
High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
[Atrial fibrillation: current trends]
1Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital de Santa Cruz.
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a serious arrhythmia, not benign. New data on maintaining sinus rhythm, including drug efficacy and surgical options, are reviewed for managing this common cause of hospitalization and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Internal Medicine
Context:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly recognized as a significant arrhythmia, being the primary arrhythmic cause of hospitalization.
- Maintaining sinus rhythm is crucial, as AF is an independent predictor of mortality.
- The duration of AF impacts cardioversion success due to electrical remodeling.
Purpose:
- To review current data on atrial fibrillation management, focusing on conversion to sinus rhythm.
- To evaluate new therapeutic strategies, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
- To discuss the evolving role of interventions like transesophageal echocardiography and catheter ablation.
Summary:
- New data on low-energy internal atrial defibrillation and drugs like ibutilide are presented.
- Transesophageal echocardiography's role in shortening anticoagulation before DC shock is examined.
- Advances in surgical and catheter ablation techniques, including pulmonary vein isolation, are discussed.
Impact:
- The review highlights the heterogeneity of AF, suggesting a need for diverse therapeutic approaches.
- Pharmacological therapy remains central, with non-pharmacological options for refractory cases.
- Ongoing studies like AFFIRM aim to resolve the sinus rhythm versus rate control debate.
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