EBQ:AFFIRM

incomplete Journal Club Article

Wyse DG, et al. "A Comparison of Rate Control and Rhythm Control in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation". NEJM. 2002. 347(23):1825-1833.
PubMed Full text PDF

Clinical Question

Which is better for treating atrial fibrillation, rate control allowing Afib at a lower heart rate, or rhythm control by maintaining sinus rhythm?

Conclusion

Rhythm control for Afib offers no survival advantage over rate control, and rate control is potentially advantageous given the lower risk of adverse drug reactions with rhythm control medications.

Major Points

Study Design

Multicenter, randomized controlled trial

Population

Patient Demographics

Inclusion Criteria

Exclusion Criteria

Interventions

Outcomes

Primary Outcome

Secondary Outcomes

Subgroup analysis

Criticisms & Further Discussion

Funding

Sources

Authors: