[Pharmacologic management of atrial fibrillation by specialists in internal medicine, cardiologists, and general practitioners (GPs) in Berlin].
OBJECTIVE
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent form of arrhythmia with a prevalence of 9%. During the last 15 years, there have been considerable changes of antiarrhythmic treatment. Aim of the present study was to investigate in which way general practitioners (GPs) as well as specialists in internal medicine and cardiologists in private practice are managing treatment of AF in the German capital.


METHODS
A random sample of physicians practicing in all parts of Berlin were interviewed in written or oral form about their common attitudes to cardioversion, maintenance treatment, and anticoagulation in patients with AF.


RESULTS
A very conservative, restrictive attitude in using internationally recommended antiarrhythmic drugs and anticoagulation was observed. Cardioversion is performed over too long time periods.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings indicate uncertainty and lack of quality assurance in the management of AF and underline the necessity to follow the existing international guidelines more carefully.
Müller-Oerlinghausen
Bruno
B
bmoe@zedat.fu-berlin.de
Rostock
Thomas
T
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001604:Berlin; D002309:Cardiology; D019091:Critical Pathways; D004554:Electric Countershock; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D007388:Internal Medicine; D010348:Patient Care Team; D012494:Sampling Studies; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D000925:Anticoagulants