RESUMO
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most widely spread type of arrhythmias and is characterized by the high rate of disability and mortality among the patients of cardiological profile. Despite the significant achievements in heart rhythm disorders management, selection of the optimal tactics for AF treatment still remains a difficult task. Strategy for retrieval and maintenance of sinus rhythm with paroxysmal and persistent forms of AF is a priority among the patients under 65 with the absence of manifested structural changes of cardiac muscle. In the case of AF with severe symptoms, carrying out of efforts to retrieve sinus rhythm by means of pharmacological or electric cardioversions is possible. Permanent AF is characterized by unsuccessful efforts of retrieval and maintenance of sinus rhythm and requires effective monitoring of ventricular contractures and antithrombotic therapy.