Managing Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Rakesh Gopinathannair, Lin Y. Chen, Mina K. Chung, William K. Cornwell, Karen L. Furie, Dhanunjaya R. Lakkireddy, Nassir F. Marrouche, Andrea Natale, Brian Olshansky, Jose A. Joglar

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

57 Scopus citations

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction are increasing in prevalence worldwide. Atrial fibrillation can precipitate and can be a consequence of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and cardiomyopathy. Atrial fibrillation and heart failure, when present together, are associated with worse outcomes. Together, these 2 conditions increase the risk of stroke, requiring oral anticoagulation in many or left atrial appendage closure in some. Medical management for rate and rhythm control of atrial fibrillation in heart failure remain hampered by variable success, intolerance, and adverse effects. In multiple randomized clinical trials in recent years, catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction has shown superiority in improving survival, quality of life, and ventricular function and reducing heart failure hospitalizations compared with antiarrhythmic drugs and rate control therapies. This has resulted in a paradigm shift in management toward nonpharmacological rhythm control of atrial fibrillation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The primary objective of this American Heart Association scientific statement is to review the available evidence on the epidemiology and pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation in relation to heart failure and to provide guidance on the latest advances in pharmacological and nonpharmacological management of atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. The writing committee's consensus on the implications for clinical practice, gaps in knowledge, and directions for future research are highlighted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)E000078
JournalCirculation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology
Volume14
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2021

Keywords

  • AHA Scientific Statements
  • anticoagulants
  • atrial fibrillation
  • catheter ablation
  • heart failure
  • quality of life
  • ventricular dysfunction, left

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Physiology (medical)

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