Atrial fibrillation: a historical perspective.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) undoubtedly has become one of the most well studied arrhythmias today in terms of pathophysiology and diagnostic and therapeutic (interventional) electrophysiology. Although it lends itself to an apparently easy diagnosis on a surface ECG, myriad electromechanical mechanisms underlie its origin. An era of technology has been reached that makes AF not only "treatable" but also potentially "curable." This article aims at walking through the historical corridors and maze that have led to the present-day understanding of this most common yet complex arrhythmia.
Khasnis
Atul
A
Michigan State University, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Institute, Sparrow Health System, 405 West Greenlawn, Suite 400, Lansing, MI 48910, USA.
Thakur
Ranjan K
RK
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000266:history / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000266:history* / Q000628:therapy; D003935:Diagnostic Techniques, Cardiovascular / Q000266:history; D004554:Electric Countershock / Q000266:history / Q000379:methods; D049670:History, 17th Century; D049671:History, 18th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents