Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrrhythmia. It is defined as:
- The surface electrocardiogram (ECG) shows “absolutely” irregular QRS complex intervals
- There are no distinct P waves on the surface ECG
This module is only covering the management of atrial fibrillation and not atrial flutter. However the stroke risk for both these arrhythmias are similar and the stroke risk stratification tools can be used for both.
Interactive object is: Comparing a healthy heart (normal rhythm) with Atrial Fibrillation
Irregular electrical signals disrupt the normal conduction between the SA and AV nodes and cause the atria to quiver. This prevents them from effectively moving blood into the ventricles. It can lead to stroke or other heart-related complications.
Pulse point
It is recommended that you consult the following guidelines:
ESC Guidelines on the management of atrial fibrillation, 2016
NICE Atrial Fibrillation: management Clinical Guideline,2014
The following guidelines for electrophysiology: JACC: electrophysiology
Current
SIGN: Cardiac Arrhythmias in Coronary Artery Disease, 2018. These guidelines are specifically for the management of people with cardiac arrhythmias secondary to Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).
Page last reviewed: 29 Jul 2020
