Atrial Fibrillation Cycle Length Measured on Transesophageal Echocardiography

Background: The atrial fibrillation cycle length (AFCL) measured by electrophysiologic study is well known parameter for the maintenance of sinus rhythm after DC cardioversion (DCCV) or ablation therapy. The aim of this study was to test whether a AFCL measured by transesophageal echocardiography (AFCLTEE) could predict the outcome after DCCV. Methods: In 100 consecutive patients with non-valvular AF, TEE will be performed within 6 hours before DCCV. The AFCLTEE was measured by averaging 10 sequential peak to peak intervals of atrial fibrillary waves seen in the pulsed wave Doppler image on the left atrial appendage. The primary endpoint was AF free survival rate at 6 months after DCCV.