title: Management of recent-onset sustained atrial fibrillation: pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Recent studies have highlighted significant variations in the management of recent-onset sustained atrial fibrillation (AF). We aim to provide a succinct and clear management algorithm for physicians treating patients with recent-onset sustained AF.
  
  
  METHODS
  We performed a comprehensive search of the literature on the management of recent-onset sustained AF with focus on studies reporting cardioversion of AF, antiarrhythmic agents, and anticoagulation. We also reviewed recent practice guidelines on AF management.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This review provides a guide on a tailored management approach of patients with recent-onset sustained AF. After initial detailed clinical assessment, optimal rate and rhythm control options can be provided, depending on hemodynamic stability, duration of AF episode, and AF stroke risk. Issues surrounding electrical and pharmacologic cardioversion are discussed in detail. We emphasize the importance of thromboembolic risk assessment and appropriate anticoagulation surrounding the point of cardioversion. Last, we highlighted the need for appropriate specialized follow-up care after acute AF management.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite the highly heterogeneous clinical presentations, management of recent-onset sustained AF must include stroke risk assessment, appropriate anticoagulation, and follow-up care in all patients beyond optimum rate and rhythm control strategies.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia.
authors.forename: Dennis H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Lau
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
authors.forename: Jonathan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kalman
authors.affiliation: Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia. Electronic address: prash.sanders@adelaide.edu.au.
authors.forename: Prashanthan
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Sanders
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D004554:Electric Countershock; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D018570:Risk Assessment; D020521:Stroke / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D000925:Anticoagulants
keywords: antiarrhythmic drugs; anticoagulation; atrial fibrillation; electrical cardioversion