Ambulantná terapia 2/2008

MANAGMENT OF PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia, and it associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The disorganized atrial activity that characterizes atrial fibrillation affects cardiac function and quality of life. The incidence and prevalence of AF rise with age, with a prevalence of 8% in people older then 80 years. Understanding causal etiologies, managing risk for stroke (and need for anticoagulation), addressing rate, and assessing the risk of cardioversion are key elements in the management of patients with atrial fibrillation.

Keywords: atrial fibrillation, tromboembolism, cardioversion, rhythm control, rate control