Errors and pitfalls in the non-invasive management of atrial fibrillation

Anatomical remodeling of left atria in subjects with chronic and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation evaluated by multislice computed tomography

“…In the medical treatment for Af, there is controversy over whether rhythm control or heart rate control is better for the patients' prognosis [12][13][14][15][16], while in fact, generally speaking, there is no significant difference between them. If the findings of the anatomical remodeling, highlighted by us in this study, are accepted as one of the indicators of the presence of an advanced anatomical form of CAf, then further stratification of the staging of Af may be achievable.…”

The Effects of Cardioversion on the Prothrombotic Markers and CRP in the Atrial Fibrillation

“…Although maintaining the rate of ventricular response in an acceptable range is an adequate therapeutic approach for certain patients, restoration and maintenance of Sinus Rhythm (SR) is the preferred treatment approach for most patients. The therapeutic approach of the restoration of sinus rhythm has favorable effects such as prevention of electrical and structural remodeling in the atrium, improvement of hemodynamic status, recovering the symptoms and better quality of life [1][2][3][4].…”

“…Although antiarrhythmic medications are used for the maintenance of SR, a majority of the patients redeveloped AF [1,2]. It is generally believed that the recurrence of AF is related to advanced age, atrial enlargement, and prolonged arrhythmia.…”

The Association of Metabolic Syndrome with Atrial Fibrillation: An Emerging Epidemiological and Pathophysiological Hypothesis

“…Despite these epidemiological and pathophysiological considerations, well-designed studies are needed in order to eluciDear Sir, Atrial fi brillation (AF) represents the most common arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice while its prevalence is continuously increasing [1,2] . AF is no longer being considered a benign arrhythmia since it is responsible for a 3-to 5-fold increased risk of thromboembolic events and a 2-fold increased risk of mortality [2] .…”

“…AF is no longer being considered a benign arrhythmia since it is responsible for a 3-to 5-fold increased risk of thromboembolic events and a 2-fold increased risk of mortality [2] . Atrial electrical and structural remodeling possibly accounts for the propensity of AF to become sustained over time [3] .…”