Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers are first-line agents for rate control in AF. These drugs can be administered either intravenously or orally. They are effective at rest and with exertion. Intravenous diltiazem or metoprolol are commonly used for AF with a rapid ventricular response.
Read moreHow often should AFib be monitored?
Although most recommendations suggest an IRM monitoring strategy between two and four 24-hour IRM per year for the detection of AF recurrence, most statements simultaneously note that these strategies have a limited sensitivity and a significant proportion of patients with AF recurrence will not be detected.
Read moreWhat is considered new onset atrial fibrillation?
New-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) is a new or first detectable episode of a chaotic and irregular atrial arrhythmia . Prevalence increases progressively with age.
Read moreWhat are current recommendations for anticoagulants in the patient with new onset AFib?
For patients with AF or atrial flutter of 48 hours’ duration or longer, or when the duration of AF is unknown, anticoagulation with warfarin (INR 2.0 to 3.0), a factor Xa inhibitor, or direct thrombin inhibitor is recommended for at least 3 weeks before and at least 4 weeks after cardioversion.
Read moreWhen do you Anticoagulate AFib?
Based on these observations, it is generally recommended that anticoagulation be instituted for three weeks before cardioversion is attempted in patients with AF of more than two days’ duration . To minimize thromboembolic complications, anticoagulants should be continued for four weeks after cardioversion.
Read moreWhat duration of atrial fibrillation is significant?
Contemporary North American and European guidelines recommend that the clinical pattern of atrial fibrillation (AF) be classified based on episode duration and persistence, with AF defined as paroxysmal if episode duration is less than 7 days and persistent if the episode duration is 7 days or longer .
Read moreWhat is cardioversion procedure?
Cardioversion is a procedure used to return an abnormal heartbeat to a normal rhythm . This procedure is used when the heart is beating very fast or irregular. This is called an arrhythmia. Arrhythmias can cause problems such as fainting, stroke, heart attack, and even sudden cardiac death.
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