[Current role of echocardiography in patients with atrial fibrillation]

G Ital Cardiol (Rome). 2014 Sep;15(9):494-507. doi: 10.1714/1640.17976.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice. Cardiologists are often called upon to manage atrial fibrillation both in the acute urgent setting for the presence of hemodynamic compromise and electively for rhythm and/or heart rate control as well as for anti-remodeling strategies. In all these cases echocardiography is generally used. In particular, different echocardiographic techniques (transthoracic, transesophageal) and modalities (two-dimensional, three-dimensional, speckle tracking) can be indicated depending on the stage of the arrhythmia management and the need for cardioversion or interventional procedures. The purpose of this review is to clarify the current role of echocardiography, including specific techniques and modalities, in the managing process of atrial fibrillation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use
  • Atrial Fibrillation / diagnostic imaging*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy*
  • Catheter Ablation
  • Echocardiography
  • Electric Countershock
  • Heart Atria / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Risk Assessment
  • Stroke / prevention & control
  • Thromboembolism / prevention & control

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents