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EACVI/EHRA Expert Consensus Document on the role of multi-modality imaging for the evaluation of patients with atrial fibrillation

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Date: 9 February 2016
Journal: European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Imaging , Volume 17 , Issue 4 , Pages 355 - 383
Authors: E. Donal , G. Lip , M. Galderisi , A. Goette , D. Shah , M. Marwan , M. Lederlin , S. Mondillo , T. Edvardsen , M. Sitges , J. Grapsa , M. Garbi , R. Senior , A. Gimelli , T. Potpara , I. Van Gelder , B. Gorenek , P. Mabo , P. Lancellotti , K. Kuck , B. Popescu , G. Hindricks , G. Habib , B. Cosyns , V. Delgado , K. Haugaa , D. Muraru , K. Nieman , A. Cohen

ESC Journals

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the commonest cardiac rhythm disorder. Evaluation of patients with AF requires an electrocardiogram, but imaging techniques should be considered for defining management and driving treatment. The present document is an expert consensus from the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) and the European Heart Rhythm Association. The clinical value of echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), computed tomography (CT), and nuclear imaging in AF patients are challenged. Left atrial (LA) volume and strain in echocardiography as well as assessment of LA fibrosis in CMR are discussed. The value of CT, especially in planning interventions, is highlighted. Fourteen consensus statements have been reached. These may serve as a guide for both imagers and electrophysiologists for best selecting the imaging technique and for best interpreting its results in AF patients.

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About the contributors

Erwan Donal

Rennes (Hospital Pontchaillou of Rennes)

Role: Author

Gregory Y H Lip

Role: Author

Maurizio Galderisi

Role: Author