Relevance of atrial fibrillation classification in clinical practice

Use of different classifications for atrial fibrillation reflects the complexity of the arrhythmia and the difficulty in grouping its different aspects. Current classifications are based on clinical presentation, etiology, substrates, mechanisms, etc. From the clinical point of view, the most relevant probably should be one directed at classifying patients in terms of therapeutic options. In this article, a review of known classifications is given, together with an attempt at a new classification based on the possibility of offering a nonpharmacologic treatment to patients.