Efficacy and safety of electrical cardioversion in atrial fibrillation in respect to antithrombotic therapy approaches

The article discusses strategies of management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF): control of cardiac rhythm or heart rate (HR). Based on own data from over 10-year-old experience with cardioversion performed in Novosibirsk Regional Clinical Cardiology Dispensary, the algorithm of management of a patient is presented; the preparation and method for electronic cardioversion are described. The article analyses the results of external shock therapy (EST) and complications from the use of various anticoagulants for the safe restoration of sinus rhythm. Authors make conclusions on the preferability of cardiac rhythm control strategy in patients with atrial fibrillation and on the safety and efficacy of electrical cardioversion in the presence of adequate antithrombotic support.