Management of atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure

Heart Rhythm. 2007 Mar;4(3 Suppl):S28-30. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2006.12.003. Epub 2006 Dec 6.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation is a marker for worse outcomes in patients with heart failure and requires careful, individualized management. Anticoagulation and rate control are important. Routine use of antiarrhythmic drug therapy for maintenance of sinus rhythm carries concerns of risk and limited efficacy. Catheter ablation for maintaining sinus rhythm is feasible for some patients, but further studies are needed to define the risks and benefits. A role remains for AV junction ablation and pacing, with consideration of biventricular pacing to prevent dyssynchrony induced by chronic right ventricular pacing. Ongoing trials will continue to define the risks and benefits as these therapies evolve.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy
  • Atrial Fibrillation / etiology
  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy*
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial*
  • Cardiotonic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cardiovascular Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Catheter Ablation*
  • Heart Failure / complications*
  • Heart Failure / drug therapy
  • Heart Failure / surgery
  • Heart Failure / therapy
  • Humans

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Anticoagulants
  • Cardiotonic Agents
  • Cardiovascular Agents