Success of electrocardioversion on the elderly
J J Stroink1, N van Boven, J H Ruiter
1Hart-long Centrum, Medisch Centrum Alkmaar, Postbus 501, 1800, AM, Alkmaar, the Netherlands, jjstroink113@gmail.com.
Summary
Rhythm control for elderly atrial fibrillation (AF) patients showed a 51.3% recurrence rate within one year. This suggests rhythm control is a viable strategy for persistent AF in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Medication-resistant atrial fibrillation (AF) presents two management options: rhythm or rate control.
- Rate control is considered safe in well-tolerated AF due to no increased mortality.
- The efficacy of rhythm control in elderly AF patients requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the 1-year outcome of rhythm control therapy in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation.
- To identify predictors of AF recurrence after rhythm control intervention in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of data from electrocardioversions (ECV) and outpatient follow-up visits.
- Inclusion of 436 consecutive elderly patients undergoing ECV between February 2008 and November 2011.
- Assessment of AF recurrence within the first year post-ECV and identification of predictive factors.
Main Results:
- The 1-year recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation following ECV was 51.3%.
- Female sex and enlarged left atrial diameter were identified as independent predictors of AF recurrence.
- The observed recurrence rate in the elderly cohort was comparable to that in younger populations.
Conclusions:
- Rhythm control demonstrates a comparable AF recurrence rate in elderly patients to younger individuals.
- Rhythm control is a viable therapeutic strategy for managing persistent atrial fibrillation in the elderly.
- Female gender and increased left atrial size are significant predictors for AF recurrence in older adults.
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