Early Cardioversion Research Articles

Cardioversion strategy impacts rate control during recurrences in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: A subanalysis of the RACE 7 ACWAS trial.

In the Rate Control versus Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7-Acute Cardioversion versus Wait and See, patients with recent-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) were randomized to either early or delayed cardioversion. This prespecified sub-analysis aimed to evaluate heart rate during AF recurrences after an emergency department (ED) visit identified by an electrocardiogram (ECG)-based handheld device. After the ED visit, included patients (n = 437) were asked to use an ECG-based handheld device to monitor for recurrences during the 4-week follow-up period. 335 patients used the handheld device and were included in this analysis. Recordings from the device were collected and assessed for heart rhythm and rate. Optimal rate control was defined as a target resting heart rate of <110 beats per minute (bpm). In 99 patients (29.6%, mean age 67 ± 10 years, 39.4% female, median 6 [3-12] AF recordings) a total of 314 AF recurrences (median 2 [1-3] per patient) were identified during follow-up. The average median resting heart rate at recurrence was 100 ± 21 bpm in the delayed vs 112 ± 25 bpm in the early cardioversion group (p = .011). Optimal rate control was seen in 68.4% [21.3%-100%] and 33.3% [0%-77.5%] of recordings (p = .01), respectively. Randomization group [coefficient -12.09 (-20.55 to -3.63, p = .006) for delayed vs. early cardioversion] and heart rate on index ECG [coefficient 0.46 (0.29-0.63, p < .001) per bpm increase] were identified on multivariable analysis as factors associated with lower median heart rate during AF recurrences. A delayed cardioversion strategy translated into a favorable heart rate profile during AF recurrences.

Pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: practical considerations.

The choice between rhythm and rate control strategy represents one of the most intriguing dilemmas in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF). Although the advantage of rhythm over rate control in terms of outcome has not been equivocally proven, the initial management of patients with symptomatic episodes of AF frequently involves an attempt of early cardioversion. As electrical cardioversion (EC) is challenging in terms of fasting status and involvement of anesthesiology team, pharmacological cardioversion (PC) is usually selected as the first step towards rhythm conversion. Proper qualification for PC or EC is similar and should comprise assessment of hemodynamic status, estimation of duration of arrhythmic episode, evaluation of anticoagulation regimen, exclusion of other supraventricular arrhythmias and assessment of the chance of rhythm conversion and persistence of sinus rhythm. Finally, the choice of adequate antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) depends on the presence of structural heart disease and local experience. In patients without structural heart disease, complications occur rarely, hence traditional (propafenone, flecainide) or nonclassical Vaughan-Williams class I (antazoline) or class III (vernakalant, ibutilide or dofetilide) drugs are preferred. The presence of structural heart disease consistent with any left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, myocardial ischemia or valvular heart disease confines the choice of AAD to amiodarone. Given the risk of ventricular proarrhythmia of AAD, safety should always prevail over the enticing possibility of rhythm conversion. The present review aims to provide a comprehensible summary of proper qualification for PC, selection of suitable AAD and state-of-the-art periprocedural management of patients with recent-onset AF.

Delayed vs early cardioversion in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: a population-based study (2015-2020).

Aim: There is limited data on clinical outcomes of delayed cardioversion (DCV) compared with early cardioversion (ECV) in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Methods: We utilized data from National Inpatient Sample (2015-2020) and propensity-score matched analysis to determine adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of major clinical outcomes, including 17,879 AF cases: 9725 and 8154 underwent ECV and DCV, respectively. Results: Compared with ECV, DCV was associated with higher odds of acute heart failure (AHF; aOR 1.79 [1.67-1.92]; p<0.01), median length of stay (4 vs 2days; p<0.01) and cost of hospitalization ($33,410 vs $21,738; p<0.01) with no significant difference in inpatient mortality and other cardiovascular and neurological outcomes. Conclusion: Compared with ECV, DCV was associated with more AHF and resource utilization.

Cardioversion strategy impacts quality of rate control during recurrences of atrial fibrillation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development Introduction In the Rate Control versus Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7–Acute Cardioversion versus Wait and See, patients with recent-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) were randomised to either early or delayed cardioversion. Purpose This pre-specified sub-analysis aimed to evaluate heart rate during AF recurrences after an emergency department (ED) visit identified by an electrocardiogram (ECG)-based handheld device. Methods After the ED visit, included patients (n=437) were asked to use an ECG-based handheld device to monitor for recurrences during the four-week follow-up period. 335 patients used the handheld device and were included in this analysis. Recordings from the device were collected and assessed for heart rhythm and rate. Optimal rate control was defined as a target resting heart rate of &amp;lt;110 bpm. Results In 99 patients (29.6%, mean age 67±10 years, 39.4% female, median 6 [3-12] AF recordings) a total of 314 AF recurrences (median 2 [1-3] per patient) were identified during the follow-up. The average median resting heart rate at recurrence was 100±21 bpm in the delayed vs 112±25 bpm in the early cardioversion group (p=0.011). Additionally, the maximum heart rate was also significantly lower in the delayed cardioversion group (115 [94-131] vs 136 [118-147], p=0.001). Optimal rate control was seen in 68.4% [21.3-100%] of the performed recordings per patient in the delayed, and 33.3% [0-77.5%] of the performed recordings per patient in the early cardioversion group (p=0.01). Randomisation group (coefficient -12.09 (-20.55 - -3.63, p=0.006) for delayed versus early cardioversion) and heart rate on index ECG (coefficient 0.46 (0.29-0.63, p&amp;lt;0.001) per bpm increase) were identified as multivariable adjusted factors associated with lower median heart rate during AF recurrences. Conclusion A delayed cardioversion strategy translated into lower median heart rates as well as lower peak heart rates during AF recurrences. Apart from the randomized treatment, heart rate at recurrence was influenced by the intrinsic heart rate on presentation.

Factors predictive of spontaneous reversion to sinus rhythm: Findings from an integrated acute atrial fibrillation pathway

Recent evidence suggests that delayed cardioversion of uncomplicated acute AF is non-inferior to early cardioversion in the Emergency Department (ED), 1 Pluymaekers N.A.H.A. Dudink E.A.M.P. Luermans J.G.L.M. et al. Early or Delayed Cardioversion in Recent-Onset Atrial Fibrillation. N Engl J Med. 2019; 380: 1499-1508 Crossref PubMed Scopus (95) Google Scholar and most patients will revert spontaneously to sinus rhythm (SR) by a rate control strategy. 2 Abadie B.Q. Hansen B. Walker J. et al. Likelihood of Spontaneous Cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation Using a Conservative Management Strategy Among Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department. Am J Cardiol. 2019; 124: 1534-1539 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (5) Google Scholar We adopted a new inter-departmental acute AF clinical pathway 3 Al-Busaidi I.S. Clare G.C. Joyce L.R. et al. Presentation, Treatment and Long-Term Outcomes of a Multidisciplinary Acute Atrial Fibrillation Pathway: A 12-Month Follow-Up Study. Heart Lung Circ. 2022; 31: 216-223 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar in 2015 which involves a ‘rate-and-wait’ strategy where patients are managed with rate control agents followed by a review in a ward-based clinic within 24-72 hours (97% attend within this time frame). Over two-thirds (71%) of pathway patients spontaneously reverted to SR by clinic review. 3 Al-Busaidi I.S. Clare G.C. Joyce L.R. et al. Presentation, Treatment and Long-Term Outcomes of a Multidisciplinary Acute Atrial Fibrillation Pathway: A 12-Month Follow-Up Study. Heart Lung Circ. 2022; 31: 216-223 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar We examined predictors of spontaneous reversion to SR at AF clinic follow-up.

MHealth-based assessment of rate control during recurrent paroxysms after an emergency department visit for recent-onset atrial fibrillation: a subanalysis of the RACE 7 ACWAS trial

Abstract Introduction Achieving adequate rate control is a mainstay in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). In the Rate Control versus Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7 – Acute Cardioversion versus Wait and See (RACE 7 ACWAS) trial, an early cardioversion approach was compared to a delayed cardioversion approach for patients with recent-onset symptomatic AF, followed by a four-week monitoring period using mobile health (mHealth). Purpose To assess the adequacy of rate control during recurrences of AF in the four weeks after an emergency department visit for recent-onset AF using mHealth. Methods After restoration of sinus rhythm (spontaneous or through cardioversion), patients (n=335) were asked to record one minute heart rate and rhythm recordings three times daily and in case of symptoms by using an electrocardiographic-based handheld device to monitor for recurrences for four weeks after the index visit. Recordings from the handheld device were collected at the end of the follow-up period. For this subanalysis, a cut-off for lenient rate control during AF recurrences was used and this was defined as a heart rate of &amp;lt;110 beats per minute. A p-value of &amp;lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results mHealth-based monitoring identified 99 patients with a total of 314 recurrences (29.6% of the included patients; median age 67 [interquartile range (IQR) 13] years, 60.6% male, 49.5% delayed cardioversion group, median number of recurrences 2 [IQR 2]). Two recurrences in one patient were excluded from analysis because heart rate could not be adequately assessed due to too much interference. Rate control was always adequate during 126 recurrences (40.4%), always inadequate during 111 recurrences (35.6%) and varying between adequate and inadequate in the remaining 75 recurrences (24.0%). On a patient level, rate control was always adequate in 26 patients (26.5%), always inadequate in 20 patients (20.4%) and varying between or within recurrences in the remaining 52 patients (53.1%) (Figure 1). Although there were no differences in clinical characteristics of the patients based on their adequacy of rate control, there is a trend towards significance regarding randomisation group (p=0.051), with patients with adequate rate control being more often in the delayed cardioversion group compared to those with varying and inadequate rate control (18 (69.2%) vs 24 (46.2%) vs 7 (35.0%), respectively). Conclusion It is feasible to assess heart rate and the adequacy of rate control during recurrences of recent-onset AF using mHealth. Whether real time mHealth-based rate and rhythm monitoring can be integrated in a remote management pathway to adapt rate control in AF patients warrants further studies. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development–Health Care Efficiency Research Program

Impact of the RACE 7 ACWAS trial on patient behaviour, referral and treatment strategies at the emergency department: patient perspectives

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction In the Rate Control versus Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7–Acute Cardioversion versus Wait and See (RACE 7 ACWAS) trial, a delayed cardioversion approach was compared to early cardioversion. Based on the results of this trial, the delayed cardioversion approach has been added to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines for atrial fibrillation (AF) as a strategy for the acute management of patients with recent-onset AF episodes. Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of participation in the RACE 7 ACWAS trial, in combination with education on the delayed cardioversion approach, on the behaviour of patients regarding their recent-onset AF episodes. Methods Patients who were enrolled in the RACE 7 ACWAS trial in our centre and who gave their consent to be approached for future research projects were asked to complete a questionnaire, asking about AF recurrences and related treatment after their participation in the RACE 7 ACWAS trial. Results Of the 148 patients enrolled in the RACE 7 ACWAS trial in our centre, 130 patients were eligible for this study. Of these patients, 16 refused participation, 25 could not be reached and 16 did not return the questionnaire. Seventy-three patients (mean age 69, 64.4% men, 50.7% delayed cardioversion group) completed the questionnaire and were included in the current analysis. Forty-nine patients (67.1%) experienced AF recurrences after the trial. Of the patients with AF recurrences, 23 patients (46%) indicated that since their participation in the trial they have been waiting longer for spontaneous conversion to occur, i.e. 13 patients (26%) wait longer before contacting the emergency department (ED) and 10 patients (20%) wait as long as it takes for spontaneous conversion to occur. Twenty-five patients (51.0%) had been to the ED because of AF at least one time after their participation in the RACE 7 ACWAS trial. Eleven patients (45.8%) who contacted the ED were advised to wait at home a while longer before visiting the ED. In 13 patients (52%) a delayed cardioversion approach at the ED was applied at least once. Eleven patients experiencing recurrences (22.9%) indicated that ED visits had been avoided because the ED advised them telephonically to await spontaneous conversion longer (Figure 1). There were no significant differences between patients who were in the early cardioversion group compared to patients who were in the delayed cardioversion group (Table 1). Conclusion The RACE 7 ACWAS trial appears to have impacted the behaviour of approximately half of the included patients, who indicated that following participation in the trial they were more likely to await spontaneous conversion. Health care professionals at the ED adopted a delayed cardioversion strategy in half of all cases. In about 1 in every 4-5 patients, an ED visit was avoided because patients were telephonically advised to wait longer.

Adherence to mobile health for intermittent rhythm monitoring to detect recurrences after emergency department visit for recent-onset atrial fibrillation: a subanalysis of the RACE 7 ACWAS trial

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development–Health Care Efficiency Research Program Introduction In the Rate Control versus Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7–Acute Cardioversion versus Wait and See (RACE 7 ACWAS) trial an early cardioversion approach was compared to a delayed cardioversion approach for patients with recent-onset symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), followed by a four-week monitoring period using mobile health (mHealth). Purpose To evaluate the adherence and motivation to a four-week mHealth prescription to daily intermittent rhythm monitoring for recurrences after emergency department visit in patients with recent-onset AF. In addition, we studied predictors of mHealth adherence and motivation and evaluated whether recurrences during this four-week period influenced adherence and motivation patterns. Methods After the index visit, patients were asked to use an electrocardiographic-based telemetric device to record one minute heart rate and rhythm recordings three times daily and in case of symptoms during a period of four weeks. For patients who collected recordings for more than four weeks, data was censored at four weeks. Adherence and patient motivation based on the number of monitoring days and full monitoring days were evaluated. A p-value of &amp;lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results 335 patients (58% men; median age 67±11 years) used the telemetric device and were included in the current analysis. The median overall adherence of all patients was 83.3% (IQR 29.9%). The median number of monitoring days was 27 (5), whereas the median number of full monitoring days was 16 (14). Age and the index episode being a recurrent paroxysm of AF rather than a first presentation were identified as independent predictors of adherence (odds ratio (OR) 1.037 (95%CI 1.015-1.060), p=0.001 and OR 1.863 (95%CI 1.190-2.916), p=0.007, respectively). Age (OR 1.031 (95%CI 1.009-1.053), p=0.005) and the use of antiarrhythmic drugs (OR 1.800 (95%CI 1.047-3.093), p=0.033) were identified as independent predictors of motivation. Patients with recurrences had significantly higher median adherence (87.7% vs 81.5%, p=0.028) and more full monitoring days (18 (14) days vs 15 (13) days, p=0.024), and were more likely to perform additional recordings (78.8% vs 49.2%, p=&amp;lt;0.001) compared to patients without recurrences. Conclusion Patients with recent-onset AF showed good adherence and motivation to a four-week mHealth prescription to monitor for AF recurrences after an emergency department visit for recent-onset AF. Adherence and motivation were high during the entire monitoring period, indicating that intermittent rhythm monitoring using mHealth is feasible for 1 month. Whether comparable mHealth adherence and motivation can be achieved in real world clinical scenarios outside a randomized study, warrants further observational studies.

Cardioversion in patients with newly diagnosed non-valvular atrial fibrillation: observational study using prospectively collected registry data

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical outcomes of patients who underwent cardioversion compared with those who did not have cardioverson in a large dataset of patients with recent onset non-valvular atrial fibrillation.DesignObservational...

Proposal for a clinical and an echocardiographic score for prediction of left atrial thrombosis in atrial fibrillation patients undergoing early electrical cardioversion.

AimsLeft atrial thrombosis (LAT) is usually detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The aim of the present study was to identify clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with left atrial thrombosis in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients undergoing early electrical cardioversion (ECV) in order to create scores that can predict LAT, in a non‐invasive way.MethodsA consecutive cohort of patients with persistent AF scheduled for ECV was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography and TEE. By a logistic regression model, variables significantly associated with LAT were assessed and introduced in predictive models to develop both a clinical and an echocardiographic prediction score for the presence of LAT.ResultsIn total, 125 patients [median 71 (range 49‐88) years, 60.0% males] were enrolled. Transesophageal echocardiography showed LAT in 35 patients (28%). The clinical variables significantly associated with LAT were previous stroke (OR = 4.17), higher CHA2DS2‐VASc score (OR = 1.93), lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR = 0.80), and higher brain natriuretic peptide levels (OR = 1.44). Among echocardiographic parameters, E/e′ ratio was directly associated with LAT (OR = 2.25), while an inverse correlation was detected with left ventricular ejection fraction (OR = 0.43) and total global left atrial strain (OR = 0.59). Two prediction scores (clinical and echocardiographic) were developed. The positive predictive values of the clinical and the echocardiographic score were 80% and 100%, respectively, while the negative predictive values were 98% and 94%, respectively. Combined use of the scores reached a positive and negative predictive value of 100%.ConclusionsWhen providing concordant information the two scores are able to correctly identify patients with or without LAT. An external validation is necessary to demonstrate their usefulness in the clinical practice.

RAFF-3 Trial: A Stepped-Wedge Cluster Randomised Trial to Improve Care of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter in the Emergency Department

We sought to improve care of patients with acute atrial fibrillation (AF) and flutter (AFL) in the emergency department (ED) by implementing the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians (CAEP) Acute AF/AFL Best Practices Checklist. We conducted a stepped-wedge cluster randomised trial at 11 large community and academic hospital EDs in 5 Canadian provinces and enrolled consecutive AF/AFL patients. The study intervention was introduction of the CAEP Checklist with the use of a knowledge translation-implementation approach that included behaviour change techniques and organisation/system-level strategies. The primary outcome was length of stay in ED, and secondary outcomes were discharge home, use of rhythm control, adverse events, and 30-day status. Analysis used mixed-effects regression adjusting for covariates. Patient visits in the control (n = 314) and intervention (n = 404) periods were similar with mean age 62.9 years, 54% male, 71% onset < 12 hours, and 86% AF, 14% AFL. We observed a reduction in length of stay of 20.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.5%-33.8%; P = 0.01), an increase in use of rhythm control (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.5, 95% CI 1.8-11.6; P = 0.002), and a decrease in use of rate-control medications (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2-0.9; P = 0.02). There was no change in adverse events and no strokes or deaths by 30 days. The RAFF-3 trial led to optimised care of AF/AFL patients with decreased ED lengths of stay, increased ED rhythm control by drug or electricity, and no increase in adverse events. Early cardioversion allows AF/AFL patients to quickly resume normal activities.

Early pharmacologic conversion of atrial fibrillation after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of early amiodarone-based pharmacological cardioversion for postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) following off-pump coronary bypass grafting (OPCAB).MethodsA total of 507 patients who underwent OPCAB between 2015 and 2017 were categorized into POAF (n=94) and no-POAF (n=413) groups. Patients in the POAF group were treated according to the following institutional protocol: 150 mg loading dose of intravenous amiodarone, followed by oral administration with sequential maintenance doses at 600, 400, and 200 mg per day. If sinus rhythm was restored before discharge, patients were discharged without amiodarone or anticoagulants, except for dual antiplatelets.ResultsBefore discharge at index hospitalization, 97.8% of POAF patients had restored sinus rhythm. Independent risk factors for POAF were age, unstable angina, prior percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, and left atrial diameter. The mean follow-up duration was 41.1±12.8 months. Freedom from overall mortality and composite events, including mortality, major bleeding requiring admission and cerebrovascular events, were similar between the 2 groups. Results were consistent after propensity-score matching.ConclusionsAmiodarone-based rapid pharmacological cardioversion of POAF resulted in a high sinus rhythm conversion rate (97.9%). Rate of late adverse cardiovascular events including stroke, were low even without anticoagulation. As optimal treatment and anticoagulation guidelines for POAF after OPCAB have not yet been established, amiodarone-based treatment protocols may be considered as a useful option.

Ketiapin Kullanan bir Hastada WPW Nedenli Ventriküler Taşikardi

Abstract&#x0D; Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a mortal rhythm that can occur for many reasons. Wolff Parkinson White (WPW) syndrome can cause VT. Although there are usually signs and symptoms specific to underlying diseases, sometimes it may not be possible to make a differential diagnosis. A 32-year-old male presented to the emergency department with complaints of sudden onset of palpitations and weakness. He was using quetiapine in history. His hemodynamic were stable and his rhythm on the electrocardiogram (ECG) was evaluated as VT. Medical cardioversion was started with amiodarone. Electrical cardioversion was performed after the development of nausea, dizziness, and chest pain symptoms, and a return to normal sinus rhythm was achieved. There were no typical findings in the control ECG showing WPW syndrome or the effect of Quetiapine. The diagnosis of WPW was confirmed by an electrophysiological study (EPS), and successful treatment was performed by catheter ablation. Early electrical cardioversion may be considered when there is no response to medical cardioversion in the acute treatment of VT. Earlier application of specific treatment procedures such as EPS may be considered for differential diagnosis and curative treatment.

Predictors of sinus rhythm 6 weeks after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: a pre-planned post hoc analysis of the X-VeRT trial.

Using a pre-planned post hoc analysis of patients included in X-VeRT, we evaluated predictors of sinus rhythm at 6 weeks after planned cardioversion. Receiver operating characteristic curves and logistic regression models were used to evaluate continuous and categorical variables as predictors of sinus rhythm 6 at weeks from cardioversion (end of study). The primary analysis was performed in successfully cardioverted patients with an evaluable electrocardiogram at end of study. A second analysis evaluated additional patients who spontaneously restored sinus rhythm before planned cardioversion. Of the 1504 patients with atrial fibrillation of >48 h or of unknown duration who were randomly assigned to either rivaroxaban or vitamin K antagonist, 1039 (64.6 ± 10.3 years, 73.4% male) underwent planned cardioversion and were included in this study. Patients receiving early cardioversion (i.e. between 1 and 5 days from hospitalization) had a 67% higher probability to have sinus rhythm at end of study than those who received delayed cardioversion (i.e. between 21 and 56 days from hospitalization) [odds ratio (OR) 1.67, confidence interval (CI) 1.27-2.18; P < 0.0001]. In a multivariate analysis of 17 baseline variables, patients with a CHADS2 score of 0 were 33% less likely to be in sinus rhythm than those with a CHADS2 score ≥2 (OR 0.66, CI 0.47-0.94; P = 0.0225). In the secondary analysis, spontaneous restoration of sinus rhythm was also found to predict sinus rhythm at end of study (OR 8.62, CI 1.54-48.16; P = 0.0142). In X-VeRT, early cardioversion and high CHADS2 scores predicted sinus rhythm at 6 weeks from cardioversion.

Electrocardiographic and Echocardiographic Abnormalities in Patients with Risk Factors for Atrial Fibrillation.

The electrocardiogram and various echocardiography modalities are important risk markers for atrial fibrillation (AF). Electrocardiographic criteria of left atrial enlargement, advanced interatrial block, and PR-interval prolongation are atrial risk markers for AF. Transthoracic echocardiography is elementary for risk stratification of AF. Transesophageal echocardiography is a valuable tool to detect cardiac sources of embolism if early cardioversion is necessary. Intracardiac echocardiography is a real-time tool for guidance of percutaneous interventions, including radiofrequency ablation and left atrial appendage closure in patients with AF.

Timing of cardioversion in atrial fibrillation: the sooner the better?

Management of recent-onset (<36 h) atrial fibrillation (AF) in the emergency room is highly variable, particularly concerning the type and timing of cardioversion, and the logistics of the treatment pathway. In clinical practice, it is fairly common for patients with recent-onset AF an attempt at re-establishing sinus rhythm, either with electric or pharmacologic cardioversion, as soon as feasible. Nonetheless, a ‘wait-and-see’ approach, and potentially delayed cardioversion, could represent a valid alternative to early cardioversion, considering that, often, in recent-onset AF, sinus rhythm is re-established spontaneously, thus repealing the need for active cardioversion, hence avoiding the possible risks of treatment. These concepts form the rationale for a recent multicentric randomized trial, Rate Control vs. Electrical Cardioversion Trial 7 – Acute Cardioversion vs. Wait and See (RACE 7 ACWAS), comparing the efficacy of delayed cardioversion, within 48 h from symptoms onset, in case of lack of spontaneous conversion, with early cardioversion in symptomatic patients with recent-onset AF. In patients presenting to the emergency department with recent-onset, symptomatic AF, a wait-and-see approach was non-inferior to early cardioversion in maintaining the sinus rhythm at 4 weeks. Nonetheless a system employing a delayed cardioversion strategy increases the costs of treatment, complicates the treatment pathway, and could represent a psychological burden for the patients. Accordingly, delayed cardioversion could not represent a practical choice for many hospitals with limited resources and without an adequate outpatient organization.

DELAYED VERSUS EARLY CARDIOVERSION FOR PATIENTS WITH UNCOMPLICATED ATRIAL FIBRILLATION META-ANALYSIS

Prior studies have conflicting results about whether urgent restoration of sinus rhythm (RSR) is favorable in atrial fibrillation (AF) outcomes. Hence, we did a meta-analysis to assess the outcomes of early cardioversion (EC) versus spontaneous and delayed cardioversion (SDC) in patients with

P1895Predictors of left atrial thrombosis in patients undergoing planned electrical cardioversion of atrial fibrillation treated with direct anticoagulant

Abstract Background Scheduled electrical cardioversion (CV) of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) can be performed after an adequate period of oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy to reduce thromboembolic complications. Exclusion of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombi can be achieved by transoesophagel echocardiography (TOE), that is indicated if early CV is desired in patients (pts) with ≥48 hours-lasting arrhythmia, while is not recommended after at least 3 weeks of OAC. Purpose We investigated with TOE the presence of LAA thrombi in a consecutive series of ambulatory pts scheduled for electrical CV of AF and treated with DOAC for at least 3 weeks. Methods We evaluated 93 pts referred to our Clinic for CV of persistent AF (October 2017–December 2018), all treated with DOAC. We collected clinical history, physical examination, 12-lead ECG, lab tests and transthoracic echocardiography measures. Right before cardioversion we systematically performed TOE to exclude LAA thrombi. If absent, we proceeded to CV, while in case of grade III echo-contrast and/or thrombotic stratification we didn't perform the procedure. All values are reported, as appropriate, as mean±SD or number and percentage. All results were considered statistically significant when p&lt;0.05. The entire analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences package, version 19.0 (SPSS, Chicago, Illinois). Results 76 out of 93 pts (82% – group A) were free from intracavitary thrombi and underwent successful electrical CV; the other 17 pts (18% – group B) had thrombi in LAA that contraindicated electrical CV. Group B pts (74±10 years old, 65% male sex) had higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (4,1±2 vs 3,1±1,4, p=0,014), they were significantly more affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD, 59% vs 32%, p=0.035), peripheral artery disease (PAD, 35% vs 12%, p=0.017), they had larger LA dimension (48±5 vs 45±5 mm, p=0,09 - non significant) and as expected they had reduced LAA emptying velocity (76% vs 30%, p&lt;0.001) compared to group A pts (73±8 years old, 70% male sex). There was no significant difference neither in duration (median 7 weeks) nor in type of DOAC therapy between the two groups. Conclusions Current Guidelines recommend at least three weeks of OAC before electrical CV of persistent AF. TOE is recommended only if early cardioversion is needed. We observed that in a significant part of pts treated with DOAC for more than 3 weeks TOE still identified LAA thrombi, especially in pts with multiple comorbidities. Even if we currently don't have data on clinical endpoints in this population, CV of patients with LAA thrombi despite adequate DOAC therapy may lead to an increased risk of thromboembolic events. We think it's necessary to identify more accurate predictors (i.e. CKD) to stratify the thromboembolic risk. Further randomized studies are needed to identify whether there are patients in which CV shouldn't be performed without TOE, irrespective of anticoagulation duration.

MP45: Rate control management of rapid atrial fibrillation in the emergency department

Introduction: The Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians (CAEP) Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Guidelines prioritizes early cardioversion and discharge home in the management of rapid AF, however not all patients can be safely cardioverted in the emergency department (ED). Given limited ED-based evidence on rate control, we sought to better understand the burden of disease in AF patients not managed by rhythm control and identify opportunities for improved care. Methods: We conducted a health records review of consecutive AF patient visits at two Canadian academic hospital EDs over a 12-month period. We included all patients ≥18 years with AF on electrocardiogram, a heart rate ≥100 beats per minute (bpm), and who did not receive cardioversion. Outcomes included: (1) incidence of patients managed by rate control; (2) specific rate control management practices including choice of agent, route of administration, dosing, and timing; (3) adverse events; (4) compliance with CAEP AF Guidelines; and (5) disposition and outcomes. Results: Of 972 rapid AF patient visits, 307 were excluded and 665 were included, with mean age 77.2, female 51.6%. Of those included, 43.0% were given rate control medications, most common being metoprolol (72.0%). Admission to hospital occurred in 61.4% of visits, and 77.9% of AF cases were secondary to another medical condition. In those given rate control medications, 9.1% suffered adverse events and only 55.6% had a final ED heart rate ≤100 bpm. Inappropriate use of rate control medications was found in 44.8% of cases, specifically inappropriate choice of agent (4.5%), inappropriate route of administration (26.9%), over-dosed (2.4%), under-dosed (5.2%), and inadequate timing (5.6%). Conclusion: We demonstrated that for rapid AF patients not receiving cardioversion, most cases were secondary to a medical cause and of those receiving rate control, there were a concerning number of adverse events related to inappropriate choice of agent, route of administration, dosage, and timing. Moving forward, better awareness of the CAEP AF Guidelines by ED physicians will ensure safer use of rate control agents for rapid AF patients.

Early or Delayed Cardioversion in Recent-Onset Atrial Fibrillation

BackgroundPatients with recent-onset atrial fibrillation commonly undergo immediate restoration of sinus rhythm by pharmacologic or electrical cardioversion. However, whether immediate restoration of sinus rhythm is necessary is not known, since atrial fibrillation often terminates spontaneously.MethodsIn a multicenter, randomized, open-label, noninferiority trial, we randomly assigned patients with hemodynamically stable, recent-onset (<36 hours), symptomatic atrial fibrillation in the emergency department to be treated with a wait-and-see approach (delayed-cardioversion group) or early cardioversion. The wait-and-see approach involved initial treatment with rate-control medication only and delayed cardioversion if the atrial fibrillation did not resolve within 48 hours. The primary end point was the presence of sinus rhythm at 4 weeks. Noninferiority would be shown if the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval for the between-group difference in the primary end point in percentage points was more than −10.ResultsThe presence of sinus rhythm at 4 weeks occurred in 193 of 212 patients (91%) in the delayed-cardioversion group and in 202 of 215 (94%) in the early-cardioversion group (between-group difference, −2.9 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], −8.2 to 2.2; P=0.005 for noninferiority). In the delayed-cardioversion group, conversion to sinus rhythm within 48 hours occurred spontaneously in 150 of 218 patients (69%) and after delayed cardioversion in 61 patients (28%). In the early-cardioversion group, conversion to sinus rhythm occurred spontaneously before the initiation of cardioversion in 36 of 219 patients (16%) and after cardioversion in 171 patients (78%). Among the patients who completed remote monitoring during 4 weeks of follow-up, a recurrence of atrial fibrillation occurred in 49 of 164 patients (30%) in the delayed-cardioversion group and in 50 of 171 (29%) in the early-cardioversion group. Within 4 weeks after randomization, cardiovascular complications occurred in 10 patients and 8 patients, respectively.ConclusionsIn patients presenting to the emergency department with recent-onset, symptomatic atrial fibrillation, a wait-and-see approach was noninferior to early cardioversion in achieving a return to sinus rhythm at 4 weeks. (Funded by the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development and others; RACE 7 ACWAS ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02248753.)