2023 Guide for the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation of the Argentine Federation of Cardiology

Abstract

Introduction: Clinical research is constantly advancing and the acquisition of new knowledge proposes changes in the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of Atrial Fibrillation, an extremely frequent arrhythmia in the general population, and with important alterations in the morbidity and mortality of those who suffer from it. Aim: Establish guidelines easily usable by the medical community. Materials and methods: The recommendations embodied in this Clinical Practice Guide for the management of Atrial Fibrillation, is the product of the consensus of medical specialists in cardiology and electrophysiology, which help to select the best strategies for the development of care activity aimed at patients, based on evidence proven by the scientific method available up to now. Results: This Guide offers updates, practical advice regarding epidemiological information, pathophysiology, classification,
comorbidities, risk factors, diagnostic methods, treatment and, above all, emphasizes the detailed search for this supraventricular arrhythmia, both in its clinical and subclinical expression, trying to generate a preventive approach to the consequences of worsening the health status of patients, such as the loss of cognitive abilities and even avoiding the suppression of their own independence. However, the final decision on a specific patient should be taken by the responsible physician applying the clinical judgment in consultation with patients themselves, and if necessary, with their legal representative. The Argentine Federation of Cardiology recommends that health professionals consider this guideline in making clinical decisions in their daily practice, as well as in determining and implementing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies. Conclusions: The decision-making guidelines agreed upon by cardiology specialists suggest the use of diagnostic, therapeutic and prevention practices for atrial fibrillation.