[Rhythm control - cardioversion]
S Boveda1, E Marijon, A Deplagne
1Département de Rythmologie, Clinique Pasteur, Avenue de Lombez, Toulouse cedex, France. s.boveda@clinique-pasteur.com
Insights
For persistent atrial fibrillation, pharmacological cardioversion is recommended, followed by electrical cardioversion if needed. Long-term anticoagulation and antiarrhythmic drugs are crucial after restoring sinus rhythm.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
Context:
- Persistent and symptomatic atrial fibrillation requires management strategies.
- Current guidelines recommend pharmacological cardioversion under anticoagulation.
- Direct-current cardioversion is an option if pharmacological methods fail.
Purpose:
- To outline the management of persistent and symptomatic atrial fibrillation.
- To detail the steps for cardioversion and subsequent long-term treatment.
Summary:
- Pharmacological cardioversion is the initial step for persistent atrial fibrillation with adequate anticoagulation.
- Electrical cardioversion is considered if sinus rhythm is not restored.
- Long-term anticoagulation and antiarrhythmic drug therapy are essential post-cardioversion.
Impact:
- Provides a clear treatment pathway for managing complex atrial fibrillation cases.
- Highlights the importance of continued anticoagulation and antiarrhythmic therapy for long-term rhythm control and stroke prevention.
Abstract:
In case of persistent and symptomatic atrial fibrillation, a pharmacological cardioversion under effective anticoagulation treatment may be performed according to current guidelines. In the absence of return to sinus rhythm, a Direct-Current cardioversion can be performed. After returning to sinus rhythm will arise the question of anticoagulation and antiarrhythmic drugs treatments that will be most often long-term pursued.
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