Cardioversion of atrial fibrillation. State of the art, 1995.

Since it was introduced in the late 1950s, direct-current cardioversion has been the standard procedure used to transfer patients with chronic atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. This review gives an overview of technical aspects of cardioversion, its risk and complications together with some clinical aspects, including factors of importance for a successful result. The haemodynamic benefits of sinus rhythm versus atrial fibrillation are also briefly emphasised, as are risk factors for thromboembolic events related to cardioversion. This review provides easily available information to those utilising this technology. A programme for cardioversion may be implemented on the basis of this.