Atrial Fibrillation Treatment Methods

The primary pathophysiological features of atrial fibrillation (AF) include irregular ventricular rhythm, impaired cardiac function, and thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage. Therefore, the therapeutic principles for AF primarily encompass three aspects:

1. Restoration of sinus rhythm: Sinus rhythm restoration is essential to achieve effective treatment of AF. Thus, all AF patients should be considered candidates for rhythm-control strategies aimed at restoring and maintaining sinus rhythm.

2. Control of rapid ventricular rate: For AF patients in whom sinus rhythm cannot be restored or maintained, pharmacologic rate control—aimed at slowing an excessively rapid ventricular response—is appropriate.

3. Prevention of thromboembolism and stroke: In AF patients who cannot restore or maintain sinus rhythm, anticoagulation therapy should be initiated to prevent thrombus formation and reduce the risk of ischemic stroke.It is important to note that in certain conditions—such as hyperthyroidism, acute alcohol intoxication, or drug-induced AF—the arrhythmia may resolve spontaneously once the underlying cause is addressed and eliminated.