Glossary/Arrhythmia

Atrial Fibrillation.

The most common heart rhythm disorder, in which the upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and often rapidly. Increases the risk of stroke by up to five times. May be treated with medications, ablation, or the Maze procedure.

Definition

What is atrial fibrillation?

The most common heart rhythm disorder, in which the upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and often rapidly. Increases the risk of stroke by up to five times. May be treated with medications, ablation, or the Maze procedure.

Learn more about atrial fibrillation
Related Terms

Related glossary terms.

Maze Procedure
A surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation performed during open-heart surgery. Creates a patte...
Anticoagulant
A medication that reduces the blood's ability to form clots. Commonly prescribed after mechanical...
Stroke
Sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain, causing brain cell death. Can be ischemic (bloc...
See Also

Related conditions we review.

Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Septal Defect (Adult)
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Atherosclerosis
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Atrial Flutter
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