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P wave duration in paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation
Malte Unkell1, Maxim Marinov1, Peter Stephan Wolff1
1Students' Scientific Association, Department of Emergency Medical Service, Wroclaw Medical University, Poland.
Summary
Patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) have longer P wave durations than those with paroxysmal AF. Early restoration of sinus rhythm is recommended for better long-term maintenance in persistent AF patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Atrial Fibrillation Research
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is linked to functional and structural atrial muscle changes.
- Pathological alterations in the left atrium can reduce conduction velocity and prolong P wave duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate P wave duration in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients across various clinical presentations.
- To compare P wave duration between paroxysmal and persistent AF subtypes.
Main Methods:
- A study included 119 patients diagnosed with AF (57 female, 62 male; mean age 65.3 years).
- Patients were categorized into paroxysmal AF (n=65) and persistent AF (n=54) groups.
- P wave duration was measured using an electrophysiological system during electrical cardioversion.
Main Results:
- Persistent AF patients exhibited significantly longer P wave duration (159.9 ±22.3 ms) compared to paroxysmal AF patients (144.6 ±17.2 ms; p < 0.001).
- Higher glucose concentrations were observed in persistent AF patients (119.4 ±33.4 mg/dL vs. 108.0 ±24.6 mg/dL; p = 0.015).
- These findings were independent of patient age, gender, comorbidities, and anti-arrhythmic treatment.
Conclusions:
- Persistent AF is associated with a longer P wave duration than paroxysmal AF, irrespective of clinical factors.
- Prolonged P wave duration in persistent AF suggests a need for earlier sinus rhythm restoration for sustained efficacy.
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