[Sinus rhythm restoration in atrial fibrillation after heart valve prosthesis in rheumatic defects]

The rehabilitation program for patients who underwent heart valve prosthetics must include restoration of the sinus rhythm. On the basis of the results of electric-pulse therapy and quinidine therapy in 88 patients, it is shown that the first method is more effective than the second, but in view of the sufficient efficacy and safety of quinidine therapy with the use of medium daily doses (not more than 2 g) it may be used in some of the patients. It is advisable to restore the sinus rhythm in periods of 3 months to 3 years after operation on the heart. Restoration of the sinus rhythm improves the general condition of patients after heart valve prosthetics, normalizes hemodynamics, increases the physical capacity for work considerably, and provides greater possibilities for the return of convalescents to their jobs.