Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Atrial fibrillation recurrence predictors after conversion to sinus rhythm
1Craiova Cardiology Center, Romania.
Insights
Predicting atrial fibrillation recurrence after sinus rhythm conversion is possible. Key indicators include longer atrial fibrillation duration, larger left atrium and left ventricular mass, and specific P wave characteristics on ECG.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia.
- Predicting recurrence after cardioversion is crucial for patient management.
- Identifying reliable predictors remains an active area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predictors of atrial fibrillation recurrence.
- To assess the utility of echocardiography and electrocardiography in predicting AF recurrence.
Main Methods:
- 100 patients with recent AF history were evaluated.
- Transthoracic echocardiography, 12-lead ECG, and signal-averaged ECG (P wave) were performed.
- Follow-up duration was 7.3 ± 2.2 months.
Main Results:
- AF recurrence occurred in 27% of patients.
- Recurrence was associated with longer AF duration, increased left atrium size, and increased left ventricular mass.
- Filtered P wave duration and P wave integral correlated with recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Signal-averaged ECG of the P wave is a potential predictor.
- Echocardiographic measures of left atrium size and left ventricular mass may aid in risk stratification.
- These parameters can help predict atrial fibrillation recurrence risk after conversion.
Purpose:
We aimed to identify predictors of atrial fibrillation recurrence after conversion to sinus rhythm.
Material/Methods:
We included 100 patients with a history of documented atrial fibrillation in the last 12 months that were assessed by transthoracic echocardiography, 12-lead electrocardiogram and signal averaged electrocardiogram of the P wave. Follow-up was 7.3 ± 2.2 months.
Results:
Atrial fibrillation recurrence was documented in 27 patients. It was more frequent in patients with longer duration of previous atrial fibrillation episode, with increased left atrium size and left ventricular mass, and it was correlated with the filtered P wave duration and Integral of the P wave.
Conclusions:
Signal averaged ECG of the P wave, left atrium size and left ventricular mass determined by echocardiography could be helpful in predicting the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence after conversion.
Related Concept Videos
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias V: Evaluating Dysrhythmias

