Long-Term Results of Conversion of Atrial Fibrillation by Direct Current Countershock

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Abstract
Two hundred and fifty patients with atrial fibrillation were submitted in 352 instances to direct current countershock at an energy level of 100-400 W/s. Immediate conversion to regular sinus rhythm was obtained in 87.6%. However, the incidence of success decreased steadily with the passage of time, from 74.4% after a week to 26.5% after 6 months. At 20 months, only 10% presented a normal rhythm. Quinidine appeared to be of limited value in the long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm. Repetition of electroshock was found useful when the patients reverted to atrial fibrillation within 2-6 months after the former cardioversion.

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