Authors' objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia seen in clinical practice, affecting approximately 2.5 million persons in the U.S. AF is not only common but also carries significant risks of mortality and morbidity, raising the risk of stroke more than five-fold and contributing to an estimated 15-20% of strokes annually in the U.S. Even patients with AF who do not suffer a stroke often experience diminished quality of life and require frequent hospitalization. This appraisal will evaluate the evidence on the comparative risks, benefits, and cost-effectiveness of management strategies for patients with AF. We will include in the scope of the appraisal: Antiarrhythmic drug therapy to return the heart to sinus rhythm Radiofrequency catheter ablation to terminate AF and prevent further episodes Minimally-invasive surgical techniques to terminate AF and prevent further episodes Aspirin, warfarin, and dabigatran for anticoagulation to prevent strokes The WATCHMAN left atrial appendage occlusive device to prevent strokes

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.icer-review.org/a-fib-appraisal-1209/

Year Published: 2010

URL for published report: http://www.icer-review.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Management-of-Atrial-Fibrillation-Final-Appraisal-FINAL-09-24-10.pdf

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: United States

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical and Economic Review

Contact Address: 101 Merrimac St., 10th FL., Boston MA, USA 02114, Tel: (617) 724-4445 , Fax: (617) 726-9414

Contact Name: info@icer-review.org

Contact Email: info@icer-review.org

Copyright: Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER)