Definition of Valvular Atrial Fibrillation

Valvular atrial fibrillation is a type of atrial fibrillation closely associated with heart valve disease, and its treatment must comprehensively consider both the valve disease itself and the pathological manifestations of atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation refers to a condition in which the atrial part of the heart undergoes rapid, disorganized electrical activity, preventing the atria from effectively pumping blood and affecting the overall cardiac function. Valvular atrial fibrillation specifically refers to atrial fibrillation occurring in the presence of structural heart valve disease (such as mitral stenosis, aortic stenosis, or regurgitation). The main pathological features of valvular atrial fibrillation include increased atrial pressure and atrial enlargement, which may lead to persistent atrial fibrillation.

As heart valve disease itself represents a mechanical injury to the heart, it may place the atria in a persistently abnormal state, making the heart susceptible to recurrent episodes of atrial fibrillation. Cardiac valve disease can alter the blood flow within the heart, creating turbulence and increasing the risk of thrombus formation, thereby promoting the occurrence of atrial fibrillation. Patients with valvular atrial fibrillation are more prone to thromboembolic events such as stroke due to abnormalities in cardiac structure and function.