New therapeutic approaches in atrial fibrillation

In patients with atrial fibrillation, a decision must be made whether to accept the arrhythmia (rate-control strategy) or to pursue restoration and subsequent maintenance of sinus rhythm (rhythm-control strategy). Previous randomized trials have shown no difference between these strategies with respect to morbidity, mortality, or quality of life. However, new non pharmacological rhythm-control treatment strategies have emerged and have improved the likelihood of long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm tremendousl