Left atrial function after electrical conversion to sinus rhythm.

Abstract

The displacement curve of the chest wall overlying the apex of the left ventricle was studied in 12 patients before and after conversion from atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. In 6 the return of a detectable left atrial contraction was delayed from 3-6 days, and in 1 mechanical left atrial activity was not detected after 3 weeks. A clot may be discharged from the left atrium when it 1st resumes contraction, and that anticoagulant treatment should perhaps be continued until an "a" wave appears on the apex displacement curve. The concept of left atrial failure with sinus rhythm in chronic rheumatic heart disease is discussed.