This review discusses the efficacy of anticoagulation therapy and its alternatives in patients with atrial fibrillation and flutter, including strategies surrounding catheter ablation and cardioversion.
Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter are important risk factors for stroke. Based on a literature search, pathogenesis of thromboembolism, risk assessment in patients, efficacy of anticoagulation therapy and its alternatives are discussed. Special emphasis is put on issues like paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and anticoagulation surrounding catheter ablation and cardioversion. A strategy for anticoagulation around the time of pulmonary vein ablation is suggested.
Scholten et al. (Tue,) studied this question.