Education and debate

ABC of Atrial Fibrillation: CARDIOVERSION OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

BMJ 1996; 312 doi: 10.1136/bmj.312.7023.112 (Published 13 January 1996)
Cite this as: BMJ 1996;312:112

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  1. Gregory Y H Lip,
  2. Robert D S Watson,
  3. Shyam P Singh

    Abstract

    Summary

    • Cardioversion to sinus rhythm should be considered for all suitable patients in atrial fibrillation

    • In the short term both pharmacological and electrical cardioversion restore sinus rhythm

    • Prophylactic treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs is advisable after cardioversion in high risk patients in view of the high relapse rate

    • Anticoagulants should be started before non-emergency cardioversion—ideally two to three weeks before—and continued for at least four weeks after cardioversion in patients with atrial fibrillation of >48 hours' duration

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