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Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
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Atrial fibrillation: an approach to diagnosis and management in the emergency department

Brian Milman1, Boyd D Burns2

  • 1Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK.

Emergency Medicine Practice
|April 22, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder, affects 10% of older adults and is projected to double in 30 years. This review covers diagnosis, rate vs. rhythm control, cardioversion, and anticoagulation strategies for AF management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent dysrhythmia in emergency departments.
  • Its incidence in individuals over 65 approaches 10%, with projections indicating a near doubling in the next three decades.
  • AF and its comorbidities represent a substantial healthcare burden.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide evidence-based recommendations for managing atrial fibrillation.
  • To guide clinicians in optimizing patient outcomes, particularly in emergency settings.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes current evidence on AF management strategies.
  • It evaluates pharmacologic and electrical cardioversion options.
  • It assesses thromboembolic risk and anticoagulation therapies.

Main Results:

  • The review details recommendations for rate versus rhythm control in AF.
  • It compares the efficacy and safety of different cardioversion methods.
  • It outlines current approaches to anticoagulation for stroke prevention in AF patients.

Conclusions:

  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of atrial fibrillation are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • The review offers a comprehensive guide to contemporary AF treatment strategies, including anticoagulation.
  • Effective management strategies are essential to mitigate the growing public health impact of AF.

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