Key result
Serial electrical cardioversion restores acute sinus rhythm but fails to prevent early recurrence.
Case Report (n=1)
No
Serial electrical cardioversion provides effective short-term rhythm control for refractory post-ablation atrial fibrillation, but limited durability necessitates consideration of definitive therapies like repeat ablation.
May serve only as short-term bridge in refractory post-ablation AF; leaves open role in larger prospective studies.
The authors present the case of a man in his 50s who arrived at the ED with palpitations and persistent tachycardia a month after undergoing catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, and a week after electrical cardioversion in our ED. He was once again successfully cardioverted in our ED. The unique aspect of this case is how refractory his case was.This case highlights the limitations of current AF management strategies in achieving durable rhythm control, particularly following ablation. It underscores the importance of timely follow-up, individualized treatment planning, and consideration of additional interventions such as repeat ablation or atrioventricular nodal ablation with pacemaker placement in refractory cases. Serial ECV can provide temporary relief but should be viewed as a bridge to more definitive therapy. Serial Electrical Cardioversion for Refractory Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response Post Ablation.
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Liu et al. (2025) conducted a case report in Refractory atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response (n=1). Serial electrical cardioversion was evaluated on Restoration of normal sinus rhythm. Serial electrical cardioversion successfully restored normal sinus rhythm acutely but failed to provide durable rhythm control, resulting in recurrence within one week.
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