EBQ:48hr Cardioversion for Afib

incomplete Journal Club Article

Weigner MJ et al. "Risk for clinical thromboembolism associated with conversion to sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation lasting less than 48 hours". Ann Intern Med. 1997. 126(8):615-620.
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Clinical Question

For patients presenting with Atrial Fibrillation lasting less than 48 hours, what is the incidence of cardioversion-related thromboembolism?

Conclusion

• Among patients with Atrial Fibrillation clinically estimated to be <48 hours, the likelihood of cardioversion-related clinical thromboembolism is very low
• These data support early cardioversion in these patients