“Our findings are of great importance to the debate concerning blood pressure treatment," one researcher said. The team's analysis included data from nearly 345,000 patients.
Catheter ablation is associated with better outcomes for AFib patients, researchers noted, but beginning treatment with just antiarrhythmic medications may be the most practical option.
The new guidelines were endorsed by the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, Heart Rhythm Society and Clinical Policy Approval Committee.