Managing risk factors and comorbidities in addition to rhythm control

The previously used “ABC” scheme was replaced by the more comprehensive “CARE” approach in the ESC guideline published in 2024. Drug therapy for atrial fibrillation is primarily aimed at preventing strokes and achieving the best possible symptom control. To this end, oral anticoagulation and rhythm and/or rate control are recommended. Catheter ablation can be highly effective, but is only one part of a holistic concept, for the implementation of which interdisciplinary cooperation is essential. The German S3 guideline published in 2025 also offers practical recommendations in this regard.