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Tersalvi G, Bossard M, Aeschbacher S, Wiencierz A, Beer JH, Rodondi N, Gencer BF, Reichlin T, Auricchio A, Ammann P, Moschovitis G, Bonati L, Osswald S, Kühne M, Conen D, Kobza R. Prevalence and outcomes of heart failure phenotypes in patients with atrial fibrillation. Int J Cardiol 2024; 412:132320. [PMID: 38964549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2024.132320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in patients with heart failure (HF). Real-world data about long-term outcomes and rhythm control interventions use in AF patients with and without HF remain scarce. METHODS AF patients from two prospective, multicentre studies were classified based on the HF status at baseline into: HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), HF with reduced or mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF/HFmrEF), and no HF. The prespecified primary outcome was risk of HF hospitalisation. Other outcomes of interest included mortality, cardiovascular events, AF progression, and quality of life. RESULTS A total of 1265 patients with AF were analysed (mean age 69.6 years, women 27.4%) with a median follow-up of 5.98 years. Patients with HFpEF (n = 126) had a 2.69-fold and patients with HFrEF/HFmrEF (n = 308) had a 2.12-fold increased risk of HF hospitalisation compared to patients without HF (n = 831, p < 0.001). Similar results applied for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. The risk for AF progression was higher for patients with HFpEF and HFrEF/HFmrEF (6.30 and 6.79 per 100 patient-years, respectively) compared to patients without HF (4.20). The use of rhythm control strategies during follow-up was least in the HFpEF population (4.56 per 100 patient-years) compared to 7.74 in HFrEF/HFmrEF and 8.03 in patients with no HF. With regards to quality of life over time, this was worst among HFpEF patients. CONCLUSIONS The presence of HFpEF among patients with AF carried a high risk of HF hospitalisations and AF progression, and worse quality of life. Rhythm control interventions were rarely offered to HFpEF patients. These results uncover an unmet need for enhanced therapeutic interventions in patients with AF and HFpEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio Tersalvi
- Cardiology Division, Heart Center, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland; Department of Internal Medicine, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Mendrisio, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias Bossard
- Cardiology Division, Heart Center, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland; Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Aeschbacher
- Department of Cardiology, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Wiencierz
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jürg H Beer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Baden, Baden, Switzerland; Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Rodondi
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Baris F Gencer
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Reichlin
- Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Angelo Auricchio
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Peter Ammann
- Department of Cardiology, Kantonsspital St Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Giorgio Moschovitis
- Division of Cardiology, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Cardiocentro Ticino Institute, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Leo Bonati
- Department of Neurology, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Research, Reha Rheinfelden, Rheinfelden, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Osswald
- Department of Cardiology, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kühne
- Department of Cardiology, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Basel Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Conen
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Richard Kobza
- Cardiology Division, Heart Center, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland
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2
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Allgaier R, Duncker D. [Antiarrhythmic drugs in the present day]. INNERE MEDIZIN (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 65:762-769. [PMID: 39009875 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-024-01745-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias cause a significant proportion of hospitalizations and physician contacts worldwide. By using antiarrhythmic drugs, cardiac arrhythmias can be effectively treated and the frequency of recurrences reduced. Atrial fibrillation and heart failure represent diseases in which antiarrhythmic drugs are more often used on a long-term basis. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the most common antiarrhythmic drugs and their uses as well as to provide recommendations for adequate handling and use, especially in the outpatient setting. In addition to long-term use, some antiarrhythmic drugs are also administered for the acute management of supraventricular or ventricular tachycardia. Relevant contraindications, side effects and interactions must be considered, meaning that patients should be followed up when using these potent drugs. This article shows in detail what to consider when using antiarrhythmic drugs in order to ensure not only effective but also safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Allgaier
- Hannover Herzrhythmus Centrum, Klinik für Kardiologie und Angiologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - D Duncker
- Hannover Herzrhythmus Centrum, Klinik für Kardiologie und Angiologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland.
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3
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Becher N, Metzner A, Toennis T, Kirchhof P, Schnabel RB. Atrial fibrillation burden: a new outcome predictor and therapeutic target. Eur Heart J 2024:ehae373. [PMID: 38953776 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, is not a dichotomous disease trait. Technological innovations enable long-term rhythm monitoring in many patients and can estimate AF burden. These technologies are already used to detect and monitor AF. This review describes the relation between AF burden and outcomes and potential effects of AF burden reduction. A lower AF burden is associated with a lower risk of stroke and heart failure in patients with AF: stroke risk without anticoagulation is lower in patients with device-detected AF and a low AF burden (stroke rate 1%/year) than in patients with persistent and permanent AF (stroke rate 3%/year). Paroxysmal AF shows intermediate stroke rates (2%/year). Atrial fibrillation burden-reducing interventions can reduce cardiovascular outcomes in patients with AF: early rhythm control reduces cardiovascular events including stroke and heart failure in patients with recently diagnosed AF and cardiovascular conditions. In patients with heart failure and AF, early rhythm control and AF ablation, interventions that reduce AF burden, reduce mortality and heart failure events. Recent technological innovations allow to estimate AF burden in clinical care, creating opportunities and challenges. While evidence remains limited, the existing data already suggest that AF burden reduction could be a therapeutic goal. In addition to anticoagulation and treatment of cardiovascular conditions, AF burden reduction emerges as a therapeutic goal. Future research will define the AF burden that constitutes a relevant risk of stroke and heart failure. Technologies quantifying AF burden need careful validation to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Becher
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Metzner
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Toennis
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Renate B Schnabel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
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4
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Gill SK, Barsky A, Guan X, Bunting KV, Karwath A, Tica O, Stanbury M, Haynes S, Folarin A, Dobson R, Kurps J, Asselbergs FW, Grobbee DE, Camm AJ, Eijkemans MJC, Gkoutos GV, Kotecha D. Consumer wearable devices for evaluation of heart rate control using digoxin versus beta-blockers: the RATE-AF randomized trial. Nat Med 2024; 30:2030-2036. [PMID: 39009776 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03094-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Consumer-grade wearable technology has the potential to support clinical research and patient management. Here, we report results from the RATE-AF trial wearables study, which was designed to compare heart rate in older, multimorbid patients with permanent atrial fibrillation and heart failure who were randomized to treatment with either digoxin or beta-blockers. Heart rate (n = 143,379,796) and physical activity (n = 23,704,307) intervals were obtained from 53 participants (mean age 75.6 years (s.d. 8.4), 40% women) using a wrist-worn wearable linked to a smartphone for 20 weeks. Heart rates in participants treated with digoxin versus beta-blockers were not significantly different (regression coefficient 1.22 (95% confidence interval (CI) -2.82 to 5.27; P = 0.55); adjusted 0.66 (95% CI -3.45 to 4.77; P = 0.75)). No difference in heart rate was observed between the two groups of patients after accounting for physical activity (P = 0.74) or patients with high activity levels (≥30,000 steps per week; P = 0.97). Using a convolutional neural network designed to account for missing data, we found that wearable device data could predict New York Heart Association functional class 5 months after baseline assessment similarly to standard clinical measures of electrocardiographic heart rate and 6-minute walk test (F1 score 0.56 (95% CI 0.41 to 0.70) versus 0.55 (95% CI 0.41 to 0.68); P = 0.88 for comparison). The results of this study indicate that digoxin and beta-blockers have equivalent effects on heart rate in atrial fibrillation at rest and on exertion, and suggest that dynamic monitoring of individuals with arrhythmia using wearable technology could be an alternative to in-person assessment. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02391337 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Simrat K Gill
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrey Barsky
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Xin Guan
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karina V Bunting
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andreas Karwath
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Otilia Tica
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Amos Folarin
- Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, King's College London, London, UK
- Health Data Research UK, University College London, London, UK
| | - Richard Dobson
- Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, King's College London, London, UK
- Health Data Research UK, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julia Kurps
- Real World Data team, The Hyve, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Folkert W Asselbergs
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Diederick E Grobbee
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A John Camm
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Marinus J C Eijkemans
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Georgios V Gkoutos
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dipak Kotecha
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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5
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Eckardt L, Wolfes J, Frommeyer G. Benefits of early rhythm control of atrial fibrillation. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2024; 34:288-294. [PMID: 37054762 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
In contrast to current guidelines and earlier trials, recent studies demonstrated superiority of rhythm- over rate-control and challenged the strategy of "rate versus rhythm" therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation. These newer studies have started to shift the use of rhythm-control therapy from the symptom-driven therapy of current guidelines to a risk-reducing strategy aimed at restoring and maintaining sinus rhythm. This review discusses recent data and presents an overview on the current discourse: The concept of early rhythm control seems attractive. Patients with rhythm control may undergo less atrial remodeling compared to those with rate control. In addition, in EAST-AFNET 4 an outcome-reducing effect of rhythm control was achieved by delivering therapy with relatively few complications early after the initial AF diagnosis. Successful rhythm control therapy and most likely reduced AF burden, estimated by the presence of sinus rhythm at 12 months after randomization, explained most of the reduction in cardiovascular outcomes achieved by rhythm control. However, it is too early to call for early rhythm control for all AF patients. Rhythm control may raise concerns regarding the generalizability of trial results in routine practice involving important questions on the definition of "early" and "successful", and the relevant issue of antiarrhythmic drugs versus catheter ablation. Further information is required to select patients who will benefit from an early ablative or non-ablative rhythm management.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Eckardt
- Department of Cardiology II - Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Münster 48149, Germany; Atrial Fibrillation Network (AFNET), Münster, Germany.
| | - J Wolfes
- Department of Cardiology II - Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Münster 48149, Germany; Atrial Fibrillation Network (AFNET), Münster, Germany
| | - G Frommeyer
- Department of Cardiology II - Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer Campus 1, Münster 48149, Germany; Atrial Fibrillation Network (AFNET), Münster, Germany
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6
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Kyriakoulis KG, Kollias A, Menti A, Chardouvelis P, Stergiou GS. Atrial Fibrillation Screening During Routine Automated Office, Home, and Ambulatory Blood Pressure Measurement: A Diagnostic Test Accuracy Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Hypertension 2024; 81:1477-1488. [PMID: 38602099 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.22563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is often asymptomatic and undiagnosed. As AF and hypertension often coexist, opportunistic AF detection during routine automated blood pressure (BP) measurement appears to be an attractive screening method. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies assessing the diagnostic test accuracy of office, home, or 24-hour ambulatory BP measuring devices with AF detection algorithms versus reference electrocardiography. Analyses were performed per participant (AF status based on several BP readings; most office/home devices) or per reading (AF status based on individual readings; all ambulatory devices). A meta-analysis stratified by device type (office/home/ambulatory) was conducted to calculate pooled measures of diagnostic accuracy. Sensitivity/meta-regression analyses were also performed. RESULTS Among 3096 records initially retrieved, 23 diagnostic test accuracy studies were included. Data derived from 11 093 individuals (weighted age 69 years, males 56%, hypertensives 79%, diabetics 24%, and AF prevalence 17%) indicated a pooled sensitivity 0.97 (95% CI, 0.92-0.99), specificity 0.93 (95% CI, 0.90-0.95), and accuracy 0.93 (95% CI, 0.89-0.95), with generally consistent results using office, home, or ambulatory BP devices (slightly lower specificity with the latter). The positive and negative predictive values were 0.70 (95% CI, 0.60-0.80) and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.98-1.00), respectively. Sensitivity analyses indicated lower specificity in studies implementing reading versus participant analyses. Most studies presented a low risk of bias and minor applicability concerns. CONCLUSIONS There is considerable and consistent evidence suggesting high diagnostic accuracy of AF detection algorithms implemented in automated BP monitors during routine BP measurements in and out of the office. AF diagnosis requires verification (electrocardiography) before treatment is administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos G Kyriakoulis
- Hypertension Center STRIDE-7, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasios Kollias
- Hypertension Center STRIDE-7, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ariadni Menti
- Hypertension Center STRIDE-7, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Chardouvelis
- Hypertension Center STRIDE-7, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - George S Stergiou
- Hypertension Center STRIDE-7, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
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7
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Paludan-Müller C, Vad OB, Stampe NK, Diederichsen SZ, Andreasen L, Monfort LM, Fosbøl EL, Køber L, Torp-Pedersen C, Svendsen JH, Olesen MS. Atrial fibrillation: age at diagnosis, incident cardiovascular events, and mortality. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:2119-2129. [PMID: 38592444 PMCID: PMC11212824 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are at increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and mortality, but risks according to age at diagnosis have not been reported. This study investigated age-specific risks of outcomes among patients with AF and the background population. METHODS This nationwide population-based cohort study included patients with AF and controls without outcomes by the application of exposure density matching on the basis of sex, year of birth, and index date. The absolute risks and hazard rates were stratified by age groups and assessed using competing risk survival analyses and Cox regression models, respectively. The expected differences in residual life years among participants were estimated. RESULTS The study included 216 579 AF patients from year 2000 to 2020 and 866 316 controls. The mean follow-up time was 7.9 years. Comparing AF patients with matched controls, the hazard ratios among individuals ≤50 years was 8.90 [95% confidence interval (CI), 7.17-11.0] for cardiomyopathy, 8.64 (95% CI, 7.74-9.64) for heart failure, 2.18 (95% CI, 1.89-2.52) for ischaemic stroke, and 2.74 (95% CI, 2.53-2.96) for mortality. The expected average loss of life years among individuals ≤50 years was 9.2 years (95% CI, 9.0-9.3) years. The estimates decreased with older age. CONCLUSIONS The findings show that earlier diagnosis of AF is associated with a higher hazard ratio of subsequent myocardial disease and shorter life expectancy. Further studies are needed to determine causality and whether AF could be used as a risk marker among particularly younger patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Paludan-Müller
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Oliver B Vad
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels K Stampe
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Søren Z Diederichsen
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Laura Andreasen
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Laia M Monfort
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emil L Fosbøl
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Køber
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Torp-Pedersen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital—North Zealand Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper H Svendsen
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten S Olesen
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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8
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Samuel M, Rienstra M, Van Gelder IC. Ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation: never say never again. Eur Heart J 2024:ehae374. [PMID: 38888896 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Samuel
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Isabelle C Van Gelder
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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9
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Mobley AR, Subramanian A, Champsi A, Wang X, Myles P, McGreavy P, Bunting KV, Shukla D, Nirantharakumar K, Kotecha D. Thromboembolic events and vascular dementia in patients with atrial fibrillation and low apparent stroke risk. Nat Med 2024:10.1038/s41591-024-03049-9. [PMID: 38839900 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03049-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The prevention of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation (AF) is typically restricted to patients with specific risk factors and ignores outcomes such as vascular dementia. This population-based cohort study used electronic healthcare records from 5,199,994 primary care patients (UK; 2005-2020). A total of 290,525 (5.6%) had a diagnosis of AF and were aged 40-75 years, of which 36,340 had no history of stroke, a low perceived risk of stroke based on clinical risk factors and no oral anticoagulant prescription. Matching was performed for age, sex and region to 117,298 controls without AF. During 5 years median follow-up (831,005 person-years), incident stroke occurred in 3.8% with AF versus 1.5% control (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.91-2.21; P < 0.001), arterial thromboembolism 0.3% versus 0.1% (HR 2.39, 95% CI 1.83-3.11; P < 0.001), and all-cause mortality 8.9% versus 5.0% (HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.38-1.50; P < 0.001). AF was associated with all-cause dementia (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04-1.32; P = 0.010), driven by vascular dementia (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.33-2.12; P < 0.001) rather than Alzheimer's disease (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.70-1.03; P = 0.09). Death and thromboembolic outcomes, including vascular dementia, are substantially increased in patients with AF despite a lack of conventional stroke risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair R Mobley
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Asgher Champsi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Xiaoxia Wang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Puja Myles
- Clinical Practice Research Datalink, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, London, UK
| | | | - Karina V Bunting
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - David Shukla
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Primary Care Clinical Research, NIHR Clinical Research Network West Midlands, Birmingham, UK
| | - Krishnarajah Nirantharakumar
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dipak Kotecha
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
- West Midlands NHS Secure Data Environment, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
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10
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Boriani G, Mei DA, Imberti JF. Antiarrhythmic drugs in the era of atrial fibrillation ablation. Europace 2024; 26:euae122. [PMID: 38700094 PMCID: PMC11154134 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euae122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo 71, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Davide Antonio Mei
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo 71, 41121 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jacopo Francesco Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo 71, 41121 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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11
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Rahm AK, Lugenbiel P. [Digital precision medicine in rhythmology : Risk prediction of recurrences, sudden cardiac death, and outcome]. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2024; 35:97-103. [PMID: 38639777 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-024-01015-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Digital precision medicine is gaining increasing importance in rhythmology, especially in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. This trend is driven by the advancing digitization in healthcare and the availability of large amounts of data from various sources such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), implants like pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), as well as wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers. Through the analysis of this data, physicians can develop more precise and individualized diagnoses and treatment strategies for patients with cardiac arrhythmias. For example, subtle changes in ECGs can be identified, indicating potentially dangerous arrhythmias. Genetic analyses and resulting large datasets also play an increasingly significant role, especially in hereditary ion channel disorders such as long QT syndrome (LQTS) and Brugada syndrome (BrS), as well as in lone atrial fibrillation (AF). Precision medicine enables the development of individualized treatment approaches tailored to the specific needs and risk factors of each patient. This can help improve screening strategies, reduce adverse events, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for patients. Technological advancements such as big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics play a crucial role in predicting the risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. These concepts enable more precise and personalized predictions and support physicians in the treatment and monitoring of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kathrin Rahm
- Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie und Pulmologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
- HCR - Heidelberger Zentrum für Herzrhythmusstörungen, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
- InformaticsForLife Institute, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
| | - Patrick Lugenbiel
- Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie und Pulmologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
- HCR - Heidelberger Zentrum für Herzrhythmusstörungen, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
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12
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Georgi C, Bannehr M, Lochmann M, Reiners D, Haase-Fielitz A, Butter C, Seifert M. Left atrial low-voltage areas, but not volume, predict the recurrence of atrial fibrillation in repeat ablation procedures. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2024; 35:1156-1164. [PMID: 38566599 DOI: 10.1111/jce.16266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Left atrial (LA) low voltage areas (LVA) are a controversial target in atrial fibrillation ablation procedures. However, LVA and LA volume are good predictors of arrhythmia recurrence in ablation-naïve patients. Their predictive value in progressively diseased pre-ablated atria is uncertain. METHODS Consecutive patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial tachycardia (AT), who were scheduled for repeat LA ablation, were enrolled in the prospective Bernau ablation registry between 2016 and 2020. All patients received a complete LA ultrahigh-density map before ablation. Maps were analyzed for LA size, LVA percentage and distribution. The predictive value of demographic, anatomic, and mapping variables on AF recurrence was analyzed. RESULTS 160 patients (50.6% male, 1.3 pre-ablations, 60% persistent AF) with complete LA voltage maps were included. Mean follow-up time was 16 ± 11 months. Mean recorded electrograms (EGMs) per map were 9754 ± 5808, mean LA volume was 176.1 ± 35.9 ml and mean rate of LVAs <0.5 mV was 30.6% ± 23.1%. During follow-up recurrence rate of AF or AT >30 s was 55.6%. Patients with recurrence had a significant higher percentage of LVAs (40.0% vs. 18.8%, p < .001) but no relevant difference in LA volume (172 vs. 178 mL, p = .299). ROC curves revealed LVA as a good predictor for recurrence (AUC = 0.79, p < .001) and a cut-off of 22% LVAs with highest sensitivity (73.0%) and specificity (71.8%). Based on this cut off, event free survival was significantly higher in the Low LVA group (p < .01). CONCLUSION Total LVA percentage has a good predictive power on arrhythmia recurrence in a cohort of advanced scarred left atria in repeat procedures independent of the applied ablation strategy. Left atrial volume seems to have minor impact on the rhythm outcome in our study cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Georgi
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Marwin Bannehr
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Marlene Lochmann
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - David Reiners
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Anja Haase-Fielitz
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health System Research, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Christian Butter
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Martin Seifert
- Department of Cardiology, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) Theodor Fontane, University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
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13
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Occhipinti G, Laudani C, Spagnolo M, Finocchiaro S, Mazzone PM, Faro DC, Mauro MS, Rochira C, Agnello F, Giacoppo D, Ammirabile N, Landolina D, Imbesi A, Sangiorgio G, Greco A, Capodanno D. Pharmacological and clinical appraisal of factor XI inhibitor drugs. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL. CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOTHERAPY 2024; 10:245-258. [PMID: 38196141 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvae002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
The evolution of anticoagulation therapy, from vitamin K antagonists to the advent of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) almost two decades ago, marks significant progress. Despite improved safety demonstrated in pivotal trials and post-marketing observations, persistent concerns exist, particularly regarding bleeding risk and the absence of therapeutic indications in specific subgroups or clinical contexts. Factor XI (FXI) has recently emerged as a pivotal contributor to intraluminal thrombus formation and growth, playing a limited role in sealing vessel wall injuries. Inhibiting FXI presents an opportunity to decouple thrombosis from haemostasis, addressing concerns related to bleeding events while safeguarding against thromboembolic events. Notably, FXI inhibition holds promise for patients with end-stage renal disease or cancer, where clear indications for DOACs are currently lacking. Various compounds have undergone design, testing, and progression to phase 2 clinical trials, demonstrating a generally favourable safety and tolerability profile. However, validation through large-scale phase 3 trials with sufficient power to assess both safety and efficacy outcomes is needed. This review comprehensively examines FXI inhibitors, delving into individual classes, exploring their pharmacological properties, evaluating the latest evidence from randomized trials, and offering insights into future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Occhipinti
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Claudio Laudani
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Marco Spagnolo
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Simone Finocchiaro
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Placido Maria Mazzone
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Denise Cristiana Faro
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Maria Sara Mauro
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Carla Rochira
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Federica Agnello
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Daniele Giacoppo
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Nicola Ammirabile
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Davide Landolina
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Antonino Imbesi
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sangiorgio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Davide Capodanno
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
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14
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Serban T, Badertscher P, du Fay de Lavallaz J, Providencia R, Migliore F, Mugnai G, Penela D, Perrotta L, Kühne M, Sticherling C, Chun KRJ. Definition and management of arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy: findings from the European Heart Rhythm Association survey. Europace 2024; 26:euae112. [PMID: 38693772 PMCID: PMC11094751 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euae112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy (AiCM) represents a subtype of acute heart failure (HF) in the context of sustained arrhythmia. Clear definitions and management recommendations for AiCM are lacking. The European Heart Rhythm Association Scientific Initiatives Committee (EHRA SIC) conducted a survey to explore the current definitions and management of patients with AiCM among European and non-European electrophysiologists. METHODS AND RESULTS A 25-item online questionnaire was developed and distributed among EP specialists on the EHRA SIC website and on social media between 4 September and 5 October 2023. Of the 206 respondents, 16% were female and 61% were between 30 and 49 years old. Most of the respondents were EP specialists (81%) working at university hospitals (47%). While most participants (67%) agreed that AiCM should be defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) impairment after new onset of an arrhythmia, only 35% identified a specific LVEF drop to diagnose AiCM with a wide range of values (5-20% LVEF drop). Most respondents considered all available therapies: catheter ablation (93%), electrical cardioversion (83%), antiarrhythmic drugs (76%), and adjuvant HF treatment (76%). A total of 83% of respondents indicated that adjuvant HF treatment should be started at first HF diagnosis prior to antiarrhythmic treatment, and 84% agreed it should be stopped within six months after LVEF normalization. Responses for the optimal time point for the first LVEF reassessment during follow-up varied markedly (1 day-6 months after antiarrhythmic treatment). CONCLUSION This EHRA Survey reveals varying practices regarding AiCM among physicians, highlighting a lack of consensus and heterogenous care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor Serban
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 2, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Badertscher
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 2, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeanne du Fay de Lavallaz
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 2, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rui Providencia
- Department of Cardiology, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Federico Migliore
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Mugnai
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Diego Penela
- Department of Cardiology, Medical Centre Teknon, Grupo Quironsalud, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Perrotta
- Department of Cardiology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Michael Kühne
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 2, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Sticherling
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 2, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kyoung-Ryul Julian Chun
- Department of Electrophysiology, Cardiology and Angiology Center Bethanien, Frankfurt, Germany
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15
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Boriani G, Gerra L, Mei DA, Bonini N, Vitolo M, Proietti M, Imberti JF. Detection of subclinical atrial fibrillation with cardiac implanted electronic devices: What decision making on anticoagulation after the NOAH and ARTESiA trials? Eur J Intern Med 2024; 123:37-41. [PMID: 38281819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) may be asymptomatic and the extensive monitoring capabilities of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) revealed asymptomatic atrial tachi-arrhythmias of short duration (minutes-hours) occurring in patients with no prior history of AF and without AF detection at a conventional surface ECG. Both the terms "AHRE" (Atrial High-Rate Episodes) and subclinical AF were used in a series of prior studies, that evidenced the association with an increased risk of stroke. Two randomized controlled studies were planned in order to assess the risk-benefit profile of anticoagulation in patients with AHRE/subclinical AF: the NOAH and ARTESiA trials. The results of these two trials (6548 patients enrolled, overall) show that the risk of stroke/systemic embolism associated with AHRE/subclinical AF is in the range of 1-1.2 % per patient-year, but with an important proportion of severe/fatal strokes occurring in non-anticoagulated patients. The apparent discordance between ARTESiA and NOAH results may be approached by considering the related study-level meta-analysis, which highlights a consistent reduction of ischemic stroke with oral anticoagulants vs. aspirin/placebo (relative risk [RR] 0.68, 95 % CI 0.50-0.92). Oral anticoagulation was found to increase major bleeding (RR 1.62, 95 % CI 1.05-2.5), but no difference was found in fatal bleeding (RR 0.79, 95 % CI 0.37-1.69). Additionally, no difference was found in cardiovascular death or all-cause mortality. Taking into account these results, clinical decision-making for patients with AHRE/subclinical AF at risk of stroke, according to CHA2DS2-VASc, can now be evidence-based, considering the benefits and related risks of oral anticoagulants, to be shared with appropriately informed patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Luigi Gerra
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Davide A Mei
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Niccolo' Bonini
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Proietti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Division of Subacute Care IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo F Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Italy University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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16
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Wegner FK, Eckardt L. Thromboembolic risk and oral anticoagulation in subclinical atrial fibrillation. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2024:S1050-1738(24)00032-X. [PMID: 38608971 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Availability of devices capable of continuous rhythm monitoring such as smartwatches, implantable loop recorders, or pacemakers/defibrillators is continuously increasing. Importantly, device detected "subclinical" atrial fibrillation seems to convey a significantly lower risk of thromboembolism than "clinical" atrial fibrillation verified by a conventional ECG recording. While current guidelines indicate a possible role of oral anticoagulation in selected high-risk patients with subclinical AF, recent trials show an ambiguous risk/benefit relationship of anticoagulation in this setting. The present review therefore summarizes current data on the role of oral anticoagulation in subclinical AF, aims at aiding in the decision process of anticoagulation, and illustrates current gaps in evidence regarding subclinical AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix K Wegner
- Department of Cardiology II - Electrophysiology, University Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Department of Cardiology II - Electrophysiology, University Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
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17
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Healey JS, Wong JA. What Should You Do When You Find Atrial Fibrillation on an Implanted Pacemaker or Defibrillator? It's More Than You Think…. Can J Cardiol 2024; 40:608-609. [PMID: 38280486 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2024.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeff S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jorge A Wong
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Kostopoulos G, Effraimidis G. Epidemiology, prognosis, and challenges in the management of hyperthyroidism-related atrial fibrillation. Eur Thyroid J 2024; 13:e230254. [PMID: 38377675 PMCID: PMC11046323 DOI: 10.1530/etj-23-0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common condition with a global estimated prevalence of 60 million cases, and the most common cardiac complication of hyperthyroidism, occurring in 5-15% of overtly hyperthyroid patients. Additionally, subclinical hyperthyroidism and high-normal free T4 have been associated with an increased risk in the development of AF. Hyperthyroidism-related AF is a reversible cause of AF, and the majority of patients spontaneously revert to sinus rhythm in 4-6 months during or after restoration of euthyroidism. Therefore, restoring thyroid function is an indispensable element in hyperthyroidism-related AF management. Rate control with beta-blockers consists another first-line therapy, reserving rhythm control in cases of persistent hyperthyroidism-related AF. It is still controversial whether hyperthyroidism is an independent risk factor of stroke in nonvalvular AF. As a result, initiating anticoagulation should be guided by the clinical thromboembolic risk score CHA2DS2-VASc score in the same way it is applied in patients with non-hyperthyroidism-related AF. Treatment with the novel direct oral anticoagulants appears to be as beneficial and may be safer than warfarin in patients with hyperthyroidism-related AF. In this review, we address the epidemiology, prognosis, and diagnosis of hyperthyroidism-related AF, and we discuss the management strategies and controversies in patients with hyperthyroidism-related AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Kostopoulos
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ippokratio General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Grigoris Effraimidis
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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19
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Doldi F, Geßler N, Anwar O, Kahle AK, Scherschel K, Rath B, Köbe J, Lange PS, Frommeyer G, Metzner A, Meyer C, Willems S, Kuck KH, Eckardt L. In-Hospital Pulmonary Arterial Embolism after Catheter Ablation of Over 45,000 Cardiac Arrhythmias: Individualized Case Analysis of Multicentric Data. Thromb Haemost 2024. [PMID: 38555641 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1785519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND BACKGROUND Data on incidence of in-hospital pulmonary embolisms (PE) after catheter ablation (CA) are scarce. To gain further insights, we sought to provide new findings through case-based analyses of administrative data. METHODS Incidences of PE after CA of supraventricular tachycardias (SVT), atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial flutter (AFlu), and ventricular tachycardias (VT) in three German tertiary centers between 2005 and 2020 were determined and coded by the G-DRG (German Diagnosis Related Groups System) and OPS (German Operation and Procedure Classification) systems. An administrative search was performed with a consecutive case-based analysis. RESULTS Overall, 47,344 ablations were analyzed (10,037 SVT; 28,048 AF; 6,252 AFlu; 3,007 VT). PE occurred in 14 (0.03%) predominantly female (n = 9; 64.3%) patients with a mean age of 55.3 ± 16.9 years, body mass index 26.2 ± 5.1 kg/m2, and left ventricular ejection fraction of 56 ± 13.6%. PE incidences were 0.05% (n = 5) for SVT, 0.02% (n = 5) for AF, and 0.13% (n = 4) for VT ablations. No patient suffered PE after AFlu ablation. Five patients (35.7%) with PE after CA had no prior indication for oral anticoagulation (OAC). Preprocedural international normalized ratio in PE patients was 1.2 ± 0.5. Most patients with PE following CA presented with symptoms the day after the procedure (n = 9) after intraprocedural heparin application of 12,943.2 ± 5,415.5 IU. PE treatment included anticoagulation with either phenprocoumon (n = 5) or non-vitamin K-dependent OAC (n = 9). Two patients with PE died after VT/AF ablation, respectively. The remaining patients were discharged without sequels. CONCLUSION Over a 15-year period, incidence of PE after ablation is low, particularly low in patients with ablation for AF/AFlu. This is most likely due to stricter anticoagulation management in these patients compared with those receiving SVT/VT ablation procedures and could argue for continuation of OAC prior to ablation. Optimizing periprocedural anticoagulation management should be subject of further prospective trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Doldi
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nele Geßler
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Omar Anwar
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ann-Kathrin Kahle
- Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie, Intensivmedizin, cNEP Research Consortium EVK, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Scherschel
- Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie, Intensivmedizin, cNEP Research Consortium EVK, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Benjamin Rath
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Julia Köbe
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Philipp Sebastian Lange
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerrit Frommeyer
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Andreas Metzner
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kardiologie, Universitäres Herz- und Gefäßzentrum UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Meyer
- Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie, Intensivmedizin, cNEP Research Consortium EVK, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stephan Willems
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Kuck
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Department for Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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Linz D, Andrade JG, Arbelo E, Boriani G, Breithardt G, Camm AJ, Caso V, Nielsen JC, De Melis M, De Potter T, Dichtl W, Diederichsen SZ, Dobrev D, Doll N, Duncker D, Dworatzek E, Eckardt L, Eisert C, Fabritz L, Farkowski M, Filgueiras-Rama D, Goette A, Guasch E, Hack G, Hatem S, Haeusler KG, Healey JS, Heidbuechel H, Hijazi Z, Hofmeister LH, Hove-Madsen L, Huebner T, Kääb S, Kotecha D, Malaczynska-Rajpold K, Merino JL, Metzner A, Mont L, Ng GA, Oeff M, Parwani AS, Puererfellner H, Ravens U, Rienstra M, Sanders P, Scherr D, Schnabel R, Schotten U, Sohns C, Steinbeck G, Steven D, Toennis T, Tzeis S, van Gelder IC, van Leerdam RH, Vernooy K, Wadhwa M, Wakili R, Willems S, Witt H, Zeemering S, Kirchhof P. Longer and better lives for patients with atrial fibrillation: the 9th AFNET/EHRA consensus conference. Europace 2024; 26:euae070. [PMID: 38591838 PMCID: PMC11003300 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euae070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Recent trial data demonstrate beneficial effects of active rhythm management in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and support the concept that a low arrhythmia burden is associated with a low risk of AF-related complications. The aim of this document is to summarize the key outcomes of the 9th AFNET/EHRA Consensus Conference of the Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA). METHODS AND RESULTS Eighty-three international experts met in Münster for 2 days in September 2023. Key findings are as follows: (i) Active rhythm management should be part of the default initial treatment for all suitable patients with AF. (ii) Patients with device-detected AF have a low burden of AF and a low risk of stroke. Anticoagulation prevents some strokes and also increases major but non-lethal bleeding. (iii) More research is needed to improve stroke risk prediction in patients with AF, especially in those with a low AF burden. Biomolecules, genetics, and imaging can support this. (iv) The presence of AF should trigger systematic workup and comprehensive treatment of concomitant cardiovascular conditions. (v) Machine learning algorithms have been used to improve detection or likely development of AF. Cooperation between clinicians and data scientists is needed to leverage the potential of data science applications for patients with AF. CONCLUSIONS Patients with AF and a low arrhythmia burden have a lower risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events than those with a high arrhythmia burden. Combining active rhythm control, anticoagulation, rate control, and therapy of concomitant cardiovascular conditions can improve the lives of patients with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jason G Andrade
- Division of Cardiology, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Elena Arbelo
- Institut Clínic Cardiovascular, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut d’Investigació August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- European Reference Network for Rare, Low Prevalence and Complex Diseases of the Heart—ERN GUARD-Heart
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Guenter Breithardt
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University Hospital, Münster, Germany
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
| | - A John Camm
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St. George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Valeria Caso
- Stroke Unit, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Jens Cosedis Nielsen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | - Wolfgang Dichtl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Cardiology and Angiology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nicolas Doll
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Schüchtermann-Klinik, Bad Rothenfelde, Germany
| | - David Duncker
- Hannover Heart Rhythm Center, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Lars Eckardt
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Department of Cardiology II—Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Larissa Fabritz
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, UHZ, UKE, Hamburg, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michal Farkowski
- Department of Cardiology, Ministry of Interior and Administration, National Medical Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - David Filgueiras-Rama
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Novel Arrhythmogenic Mechanisms Program, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Cardiovascular Institute, C/ Profesor Martín Lagos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andreas Goette
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St Vincenz-Hospital Paderborn, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Institut d’Investigació August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Clinic Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guido Hack
- Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Karl Georg Haeusler
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg (UKW), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jeff S Healey
- Division of Cardiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hein Heidbuechel
- Antwerp University Hospital, Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ziad Hijazi
- Antwerp University Hospital, Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cardiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Leif Hove-Madsen
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
- IR Sant Pau, Hospital de Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Stefan Kääb
- European Reference Network for Rare, Low Prevalence and Complex Diseases of the Heart—ERN GUARD-Heart
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Dipak Kotecha
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Katarzyna Malaczynska-Rajpold
- Lister Hospital, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Stevenage, UK
- Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - José Luis Merino
- La Paz University Hospital, IdiPaz, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andreas Metzner
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lluís Mont
- Institut Clínic Cardiovascular, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institut d’Investigació August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ghulam Andre Ng
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
| | - Michael Oeff
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Cardiology Department, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg, Brandenburg/Havel, Germany
| | - Abdul Shokor Parwani
- Department of Cardiology, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (CVK), Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Ursula Ravens
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Clinic Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Daniel Scherr
- Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Renate Schnabel
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Departments of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Sohns
- Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein-Westfalen, Universitätsklinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Klinik für Elektrophysiologie—Rhythmologie, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Steinbeck
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Center for Cardiology at Clinic Starnberg, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Steven
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Heart Center, Department of Electrophysiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Toennis
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Isabelle C van Gelder
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Manish Wadhwa
- Medical Office, Philips Ambulatory Monitoring and Diagnostics, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Reza Wakili
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Cardiology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Germany
| | - Stephan Willems
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Asklepios Hospital St. Georg, Department of Cardiology and Internal Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University Campus, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Stef Zeemering
- Departments of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Muenster, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Sandberg EL, Halvorsen S, Berge T, Grimsmo J, Atar D, Grenne BL, Jortveit J. Screening for Atrial Fibrillation by Digital Health Technology in Older People in Homecare Settings: A Feasibility Trial. Int J Telemed Appl 2024; 2024:4080415. [PMID: 38567031 PMCID: PMC10985273 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4080415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims Users of homecare services are often excluded from clinical trials due to advanced age, multimorbidity, and frailty. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common and frequently undiagnosed arrhythmia in the elderly and is associated with severe mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs. Timely identification prevents associated complications through evidence-based treatment. This study is aimed at assessing the feasibility of AF screening using new digital health technology in older people in a homecare setting. Methods Users of homecare services ≥ 65 years old with at least one additional risk factor for stroke in two Norwegian municipalities were assessed for study participation by nurses. Participants performed a continuous prolonged ECG recording using a patch ECG device (ECG247 Smart Heart Sensor). Results A total of 144 individuals were assessed for study participation, but only 18 (13%) were included. The main reasons for noninclusion were known AF and/or anticoagulation therapy (25%), severe cognitive impairment (26%), and lack of willingness to participate (36%). The mean age of participants performing the ECG test was 81 (SD ± 7) years, and 9 (50%) were women. All ECG tests were interpretable; the mean ECG monitoring time was 104 hours (IQR 34-338 hours). AF was detected in one individual (6%). Conclusion This feasibility study highlights the challenges of enrolling older people receiving homecare services in clinical trials. However, all included participants performed an interpretable and prolonged continuous ECG recording with a digital ECG patch device. This trial is registered with NCT04700865.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edvard Liljedahl Sandberg
- Sorlandet Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Arendal, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sigrun Halvorsen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevaal, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trygve Berge
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Baerum Hospital, Department of Medical Research and Department of Internal Medicine, Rud, Norway
| | - Jostein Grimsmo
- Lovisenberg Rehabilitation, Cathinka Guldbergs Hospital, Department of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Oslo, Norway
- LHL (National Organization for Heart and Lung Diseases), Jessheim, Norway
| | - Dan Atar
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevaal, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bjørnar Leangen Grenne
- Clinic of Cardiology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jarle Jortveit
- Sorlandet Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Arendal, Norway
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22
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Becher N, Toennis T, Bertaglia E, Blomström-Lundqvist C, Brandes A, Cabanelas N, Calvert M, Camm AJ, Chlouverakis G, Dan GA, Dichtl W, Diener HC, Fierenz A, Goette A, de Groot JR, Hermans ANL, Lip GYH, Lubinski A, Marijon E, Merkely B, Mont L, Ozga AK, Rajappan K, Sarkozy A, Scherr D, Schnabel RB, Schotten U, Sehner S, Simantirakis E, Vardas P, Velchev V, Wichterle D, Zapf A, Kirchhof P. Anticoagulation with edoxaban in patients with long atrial high-rate episodes ≥24 h. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:837-849. [PMID: 37956458 PMCID: PMC10919916 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Patients with long atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) ≥24 h and stroke risk factors are often treated with anticoagulation for stroke prevention. Anticoagulation has never been compared with no anticoagulation in these patients. METHODS This secondary pre-specified analysis of the Non-vitamin K antagonist Oral anticoagulants in patients with Atrial High-rate episodes (NOAH-AFNET 6) trial examined interactions between AHRE duration at baseline and anticoagulation with edoxaban compared with placebo in patients with AHRE and stroke risk factors. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of stroke, systemic embolism, or cardiovascular death. The safety outcome was a composite of major bleeding and death. Key secondary outcomes were components of these outcomes and electrocardiogram (ECG)-diagnosed atrial fibrillation. RESULTS Median follow-up of 2389 patients with core lab-verified AHRE was 1.8 years. AHRE ≥24 h were present at baseline in 259/2389 patients (11%, 78 ± 7 years old, 28% women, CHA2DS2-VASc 4). Clinical characteristics were not different from patients with shorter AHRE. The primary outcome occurred in 9/132 patients with AHRE ≥24 h (4.3%/patient-year, 2 strokes) treated with anticoagulation and in 14/127 patients treated with placebo (6.9%/patient-year, 2 strokes). Atrial high-rate episode duration did not interact with the efficacy (P-interaction = .65) or safety (P-interaction = .98) of anticoagulation. Analyses including AHRE as a continuous parameter confirmed this. Patients with AHRE ≥24 h developed more ECG-diagnosed atrial fibrillation (17.0%/patient-year) than patients with shorter AHRE (8.2%/patient-year; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS This hypothesis-generating analysis does not find an interaction between AHRE duration and anticoagulation therapy in patients with device-detected AHRE and stroke risk factors. Further research is needed to identify patients with long AHRE at high stroke risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Becher
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Toennis
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Emanuele Bertaglia
- Department of Cardiac, Vascular, Thoracic and Public Health Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliera, Padua, Italy
| | - Carina Blomström-Lundqvist
- Department of Medical Science, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Axel Brandes
- Department of Cardiology, Esbjerg Hospital—University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Nuno Cabanelas
- Cardiology Department, Fernando Fonseca Hospital, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Melanie Calvert
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre and NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West Midlands, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - A John Camm
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, and Imperial College, London, UK
| | | | - Gheorghe-Andrei Dan
- Medicine University ‘Carol Davila’, Colentina University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Wolfgang Dichtl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Cardiology and Angiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hans Christoph Diener
- Department of Neuroepidemiology, Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology (IMIBE), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexander Fierenz
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Goette
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St Vincenz-Hospital Paderborn, Paderborn, Germany
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Mendelstrasse 11, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Joris R de Groot
- Heart Center, Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid N L Hermans
- Departments of Cardiology and Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
- Danish Center for Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Andrzej Lubinski
- Department of Cardiology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Eloi Marijon
- Cardiology Division, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Béla Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Centre, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lluís Mont
- Hospital Clinic, Universtitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ann-Kathrin Ozga
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kim Rajappan
- Cardiac Department, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrea Sarkozy
- HRMC, University Hospital Brussels, VUB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Daniel Scherr
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Renate B Schnabel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Mendelstrasse 11, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Departments of Cardiology and Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Sehner
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Panos Vardas
- Department of Cardiology, Heraklion University Hospital, Crete, Greece
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens (BRFAA), Greece and Hygeia Hospitals Group, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasil Velchev
- Cardiology Clinic, St.Anna University Hospital, Medical University Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dan Wichterle
- Department of Cardiology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Antonia Zapf
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Postdamer Str. 58, 10785 Berlin, Germany
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), Mendelstrasse 11, 48149 Muenster, Germany
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23
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Tsai CT, Chan YH, Liao JN, Chen TJ, Lip GYH, Chen SA, Chao TF. Risk of Incident Atrial Fibrillation and Subsequent Use of Oral Anticoagulants in Patients with Dementia. Thromb Haemost 2024; 124:253-262. [PMID: 37776848 DOI: 10.1055/a-2184-7506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia and atrial fibrillation (AF) have many shared risk factors. Besides, patients with dementia are under-represented in randomized trials, and even if AF is present, oral anticoagulants (OACs) are not prescribed frequently. This study aimed to report the incidence of newly diagnosed AF in dementia patients, and the impacts of use of vitamin K antagonist (VKA; e.g., warfarin) and non-VKA OAC (NOACs) on stroke and bleeding outcomes. METHODS Our study utilized the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 554,074 patients with dementia were compared with 554,074 age- and sex-matched patients without dementia regarding the risk of incident AF. Among patients with dementia who experienced incident AF, the risks of clinical events of patients treated with warfarin or NOACs were compared with those without OACs (reference group). RESULTS The risk of incident AF was greater for patients with dementia compared with those without (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.054; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.040-1.068 for all types of dementia, aHR: 1.035; 95% CI: 1.020-1.051 for presenile/senile dementia, and aHR: 1.125; 95% CI: 1.091-1.159 for vascular dementia). Among patients with dementia and experienced incident AF, warfarin use was associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke (aHR: 1.290; 95% CI: 1.156-1.440), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH; aHR: 1.678; 95% CI: 1.346-2.090), and major bleeding (aHR: 1.192; 95% CI: 1.073-1.323) compared with non-OACs. NOAC use was associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke (aHR: 0.421; 95% CI: 0.352-0.503) and composite risk of ischemic stroke or major bleeding (aHR: 0.544; 95% CI: 0.487-0.608) compared with non-OACs. These results were consistent among the patients after the propensity matching. CONCLUSION In this large nationwide cohort, the risk of newly diagnosed AF was higher in patients with dementia (all dementia, presenile/senile dementia, and vascular dementia) compared with those without dementia. For patients with dementia who experienced incident AF, NOAC use was associated with a better clinical outcome compared with non-OAC. Patients with dementia require a holistic approach to their care and management, including the use of NOACs to reduce the risks of clinical events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Tsai Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Chan
- The Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Microscopy Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jo-Nan Liao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom and Danish Center for Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Shih-Ann Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tze-Fan Chao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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24
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Gawałko M, Betz K, Hendriks V, Hermans ANL, van der Velden RMJ, Manninger M, Chaldoupi SM, Hoogervorst H, Martens H, Pluymaekers NAHA, Spreeuwenberg MD, Hendriks J, Linz D. Changes in healthcare utilisation during implementation of remote atrial fibrillation management: TeleCheck-AF project. Neth Heart J 2024; 32:130-139. [PMID: 38214880 PMCID: PMC10884376 DOI: 10.1007/s12471-023-01836-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate changes in healthcare utilisation and comprehensive packages of care activities and procedures (referred in the Netherlands to as 'diagnose-behandelcombinatie (DBC) care products) during the implementation of the TeleCheck-AF approach (teleconsultation supported by app-based heart rate/rhythm monitoring) in a Dutch atrial fibrillation (AF) clinic. METHODS AND RESULTS In the Maastricht University Medical Centre+ AF Clinic, data on healthcare utilisation and DBC care products for patients consulted by both a conventional approach in 2019 and the TeleCheck-AF approach in 2020 were analysed. A patient experience survey was performed. Thirty-seven patients (median age 68 years; 40% women) were analysed. With the conventional approach, 35 face-to-face consultations and 0 teleconsultations were conducted. After the implementation of TeleCheck-AF, the number of face-to-face consultations dropped by 80% (p < 0.001) and teleconsultations increased to 45 (p < 0.001). While 42 electrocardiograms (ECGs) and 25 Holter ECGs or echocardiograms were recorded when using the conventional approach, the number of ECGs decreased by 71% (p < 0.001) and Holter ECGs or echocardiograms by 72% (p < 0.001) with the TeleCheck-AF approach. The emergency department patient presentations showed no statistically significant change (p = 0.33). Overall, 57% of medium-weight DBC care products were changed to light-weight ones during implementation of the TeleCheck-AF approach. Patient satisfaction with the TeleCheck-AF approach was high. CONCLUSION The implementation of TeleCheck-AF led to a change in healthcare utilisation, a change from medium-weight to light-weight DBC care products and a reduction in patient burden. These results created the basis for a new reimbursement code for the TeleCheck-AF approach in the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Gawałko
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Centre, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Konstanze Betz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Eifelklinik St. Brigida GmbH & Co. KG, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Veerle Hendriks
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid N L Hermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel M J van der Velden
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Manninger
- Department of Cardiology, Clinic of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sevasti-Maria Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Henk Hoogervorst
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Herm Martens
- Health Care Innovation and Experience Lab-Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nikki A H A Pluymaekers
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke D Spreeuwenberg
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Hendriks
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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25
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Hernández-Pinilla A, Clua-Espuny JL, Satué-Gracia EM, Pallejà-Millán M, Martín-Luján FM. Protocol for a multicentre and prospective follow-up cohort study of early detection of atrial fibrillation, silent stroke and cognitive impairment in high-risk primary care patients: the PREFA-TE study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080736. [PMID: 38373864 PMCID: PMC10882295 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. Future estimations suggest an increase in global burden of AF greater than 60% by 2050. Numerous studies provide growing evidence that AF is not only associated with stroke but also with cognitive impairment and dementia. AIM The main goal is to assess the impact of the combined use of cardiac rhythm monitoring devices, echocardiography, biomarkers and neuroimaging on the early diagnosis of AF, silent strokes and cognitive decline, in subjects at high risk of AF. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Two-year follow-up of a cohort of individuals aged 65-85 years at high risk for AF, with no prior diagnosis of either stroke or dementia. The study involves baseline echocardiography, biomarkers, and neuroimaging, yearly cardiac monitoring, and semiannual clinical assessments. Different parameters from these tests will be analysed as independent variables. Throughout the study period, primary outcomes: new diagnoses of AF, stroke and cognitive impairment, along with any clinical and therapeutic changes, will be registered. A first descriptive and bivariate statistical analysis, appropriate to the types of variables, will be done. The information obtained from the data analysis will encompass adjusted risk estimates along with 95% confidence intervals. Event risk predictions will rely on multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models. The predictive value of the model will be evaluated through the utilisation of receiver operating characteristic curves for area under the curve calculation. Additionally, time-to-event analysis will be performed using Kaplan-Meier curves. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Independent Ethics Committee of the Foundation University Institute for Primary Health Care Research-IDIAP Jordi Gol (expedient file 22/090-P). The authors plan to disseminate the study results to the general public through various scientific events. Publication in open-access journals and presentations at scientific congresses, seminars and meetings is also foreseen. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05772806.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Hernández-Pinilla
- Primary Health Care Centre Reus 2 (CAP Sant Pere), Primary Care Service Camp de Tarragona, Institut Catala de la Salut, Reus, Spain
- Biomedicine Doctoral Programme, Campus Tarragona, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain
| | - Jose-Luis Clua-Espuny
- Primary Health Care Centre Tortosa 1-Est, Institut Catala de la Salut Gerencia Territorial Terres de l'Ebre, Tortosa, Spain
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Terres de l'Ebre, Institut de Recerca en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol, Tortosa, Spain
| | - Eva María Satué-Gracia
- Primary Care Service Camp de Tarragona, Institut Catala De La Salut, Reus, Spain
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Camp de Tarragona-Reus, Institut de Recerca en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol, Reus, Spain
| | - Meritxell Pallejà-Millán
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Camp de Tarragona-Reus, Institut de Recerca en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol, Reus, Spain
| | - Francisco M Martín-Luján
- Primary Care Service Camp de Tarragona, Institut Catala De La Salut, Reus, Spain
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Camp de Tarragona-Reus, Institut de Recerca en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol, Reus, Spain
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26
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Linz D, Gawalko M, Betz K, Hendriks JM, Lip GY, Vinter N, Guo Y, Johnsen S. Atrial fibrillation: epidemiology, screening and digital health. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2024; 37:100786. [PMID: 38362546 PMCID: PMC10866942 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is highly prevalent with a lifetime risk of about 1 in 3-5 individuals after the age of 45 years. Between 2010 and 2019, the global prevalence of AF has risen markedly from 33.5 million to 59 million individuals living with AF. Early detection of AF and implementation of appropriate treatment could reduce the frequency of complications associated with AF. International AF management guidelines recommend opportunistic and systematic screening for AF, but additional data are needed. Digital approaches and pathways have been proposed for early detection and for the transition to early AF management. Mobile health (mHealth) devices provide an opportunity for digital screening and should be part of novel models of care delivery based on integrated AF care pathways. For a broad implementation of mHealth-based, integrated care for patients with chronic diseases as AF, further high quality evidence is necessary. In this review, we present an overview of the present data on epidemiology, screening techniques, and the contribution of digital health solutions to the integrated management of AF. We also provide a systemic review on current data of digital and integrated AF management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monika Gawalko
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Konstanze Betz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Jeroen M. Hendriks
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Gregory Y.H. Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Danish Center for Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Nicklas Vinter
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Diagnostic Centre, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Yutao Guo
- Six Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary Vessel and Thrombotic Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Søren Johnsen
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Könemann H, Güler-Eren S, Ellermann C, Frommeyer G, Eckardt L. Antiarrhythmic Treatment in Heart Failure. Curr Heart Fail Rep 2024; 21:22-32. [PMID: 38224446 PMCID: PMC10828006 DOI: 10.1007/s11897-023-00642-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Arrhythmias are common in patients with heart failure (HF) and are associated with a significant risk of mortality and morbidity. Optimal antiarrhythmic treatment is therefore essential. Here, we review current approaches to antiarrhythmic treatment in patients with HF. RECENT FINDINGS In atrial fibrillation, rhythm control and ventricular rate control are accepted therapeutic strategies. In recent years, clinical trials have demonstrated a prognostic benefit of early rhythm control strategies and AF catheter ablation, especially in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction. Prevention of sudden cardiac death with ICD therapy is essential, but optimal risk stratification is challenging. For ventricular tachycardias, recent data support early consideration of catheter ablation. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy is an adjunctive therapy in symptomatic patients but has no prognostic benefit and well-recognized (proarrhythmic) adverse effects. Antiarrhythmic therapy in HF requires a systematic, multimodal approach, starting with guideline-directed medical therapy for HF and integrating pharmacological, device, and interventional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilke Könemann
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - Sati Güler-Eren
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Ellermann
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerrit Frommeyer
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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28
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Leung ANW, Bhat A. Use of Anticoagulation for Thromboembolic Prophylaxis in Patients With Atrial High-Rate Episodes on Device Monitoring: A Narrative Review. Am J Cardiol 2024; 211:183-190. [PMID: 37944778 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke and systemic thromboembolism are primary drivers of significant morbidity and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Although stroke is commonly the first index presentation of clinically silent AF, the growing use of continuous rhythm monitoring through cardiac implanted electronic devices has enabled earlier and increased detection of AF in patients who are otherwise asymptomatic before stroke development. Atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) are atrial tachyarrhythmias frequently detected by cardiac implanted electronic devices; these events represent subclinical AF and other atrial tachyarrhythmias that can lead to stroke development and AF. Although the presence of AHREs increases the risk of developing both clinical AF and stroke compared with absence of AHREs, there has been a significant clinical variability in anticoagulation initiation in these subjects. In this narrative review, we explore the current evidence and published research surrounding the association between AHREs and stroke development in addition to the utility of anticoagulation in this population for thromboembolic prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Ngar Wing Leung
- Department of Cardiology, Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aditya Bhat
- Department of Cardiology, Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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29
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Korthals D, Eckardt L. The new European Society of Cardiology guideline for the management of cardiomyopathies: key messages for cardiac electrophysiologists. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2023; 34:311-323. [PMID: 37973628 PMCID: PMC10682323 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-023-00975-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Electrocardiographic findings and arrhythmias are common in cardiomyopathies. Both may be an early indication of a specific diagnosis or may occur due to myocardial fibrosis and/or reduced contractility. Brady- and tachyarrhythmias significantly contribute to increased morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiomyopathies. Antiarrhythmic therapy including risk stratification is often challenging and plays a major role for these patients. Thus, an "electrophysiological" perspective on guidelines on cardiomyopathies may be warranted. As the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) has recently published a new guideline for the management of cardiomyopathies, this overview aims to present key messages of these guidelines. Innovations include a new phenotype-based classification system with emphasis on a multimodal imaging approach for diagnosis and risk stratification. The guideline includes detailed chapters on dilated and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and their phenocopies, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy as well as syndromic and metabolic cardiomyopathies. Patient pathways guide clinicians from the initial presentation to diagnosis. The role of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging and genetic testing during diagnostic work-up is stressed. Concepts of rhythm and rate control for atrial fibrillation have led to new recommendations, and the role of defibrillator therapy in primary prevention is discussed in detail. Whilst providing general guidelines for management, the primary objective of the guideline is to ascertain the disease etiology and disease-specific, individualized management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Korthals
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Department of Cardiology II: Electrophysiology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
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30
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Wang W, Gu Y, Wei S, Xie J, Zheng X, Yu Y. Standardized community management on the diagnosis, treatment, and risk factors control for non-valvular atrial fibrillation in elderly patients. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:257. [PMID: 38037007 PMCID: PMC10687903 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02207-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND By investigating the knowledge, medication, occurrence of complications, and risks among elderly non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients in Shanghai communities, and providing standardized comprehensive management and follow-up, we aim to explore the impact of standardized community management on improving disease awareness, standardizing atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment, reducing the risk of complications occurrence, and addressing risk factors for AF patients. METHODS This research selected elderly atrial fibrillation patients from Zhuanqiao Community Health Service Center, Minhang District, Shanghai from July 2020 to October 2022. Their personal health records and examination results were reviewed, and the incidence of AF, awareness, medication, and complications were investigated. Age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (aCCI), CHA2DS2-VASc score, and HAS-BLED score were used to evaluate disease burden, thromboembolic risk, and bleeding risk, respectively. The patients were subjected to standardized community management, and the compliance rate of disease awareness, treatment, resting heart rate, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and body mass index (BMI) were assessed at the baseline, 6 months and 1 year after management. RESULTS A total of 243 NVAF patients were included, with an average aCCI score of (4.5 ± 1.1). Among them, 28% of the patients were aware of their AF, and 18.1% of the patients were aware of the hazards of AF. Of the patients, 11.9% used anticoagulant drugs, including 6.6% and 5.3% for warfarin and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs), respectively. 7% of patients used antiplatelet drugs. 26.7% of the patients used heart rate control drugs. 10.3% of the patients experienced thromboembolic events, and 0.8% of the patients experienced bleeding events. 93.0% of the patients were at high risk of thromboembolism, and 24.7% of the patients were at high risk of bleeding. Compared with the baseline, there were significant statistical differences (P < 0.001) in disease awareness, awareness of the hazards of AF, use of anticoagulant drugs and heart rate control drugs, and control of risk factors among NVAF patients after standardized community management. Moreover, with the extension of management time, there was a linear increase in the awareness of NVAF, awareness of the hazards of AF, utilization rate of anticoagulant drugs, utilization rate of heart rate control drugs, blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI compliance rate (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Currently, the awareness, treatment, and control of risk factors for AF in elderly NVAF patients in Shanghai community are not satisfactory. Standardized community management helps to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and control of risk factors in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Deparment of General practice, Zhuanqiao Community Health Service Center, Shanghai, Minhang District, China
| | - Yufeng Gu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Wei
- Deparment of General practice, Zhuanqiao Community Health Service Center, Shanghai, Minhang District, China
| | - Juan Xie
- Deparment of General practice, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiuli Zheng
- Deparment of General practice, Zhuanqiao Community Health Service Center, Shanghai, Minhang District, China.
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
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31
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Winters J, Isaacs A, Zeemering S, Kawczynski M, Maesen B, Maessen J, Bidar E, Boukens B, Hermans B, van Hunnik A, Casadei B, Fabritz L, Chua W, Sommerfeld L, Guasch E, Mont L, Batlle M, Hatem S, Kirchhof P, Wakili R, Sinner M, Stoll M, Goette A, Verheule S, Schotten U. Heart Failure, Female Sex, and Atrial Fibrillation Are the Main Drivers of Human Atrial Cardiomyopathy: Results From the CATCH ME Consortium. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e031220. [PMID: 37982389 PMCID: PMC10727294 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial cardiomyopathy (atCM) is an emerging prognostic factor in cardiovascular disease. Fibrotic remodeling, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and capillary density are hallmarks of atCM. The contribution of etiological factors and atrial fibrillation (AF) to the development of differential atCM phenotypes has not been quantified. This study aimed to evaluate the association between histological features of atCM and the clinical phenotype. METHODS AND RESULTS We examined left atrial (LA, n=95) and right atrial (RA, n=76) appendages from a European cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Quantification of histological atCM features was performed following wheat germ agglutinin/CD31/vimentin staining. The contributions of AF, heart failure, sex, and age to histological characteristics were determined with multiple linear regression models. Persistent AF was associated with increased endomysial fibrosis (LA: +1.13±0.47 μm, P=0.038; RA: +0.94±0.38 μm, P=0.041), whereas total extracellular matrix content was not. Men had larger cardiomyocytes (LA: +1.92±0.72 μm, P<0.001), while women had more endomysial fibrosis (LA: +0.99±0.56 μm, P=0.003). Patients with heart failure showed more endomysial fibrosis (LA: +1.85±0.48 μm, P<0.001) and extracellular matrix content (LA: +3.07±1.29%, P=0.016), and a higher capillary density (LA: +0.13±0.06, P=0.007) and size (LA: +0.46±0.22 μm, P=0.044). Fuzzy k-means clustering of histological features identified 2 subtypes of atCM: 1 characterized by enhanced endomysial fibrosis (LA: +3.17 μm, P<0.001; RA: +2.86 μm, P<0.001), extracellular matrix content (LA: +3.53%, P<0.001; RA: +6.40%, P<0.001) and fibroblast density (LA: +4.38%, P<0.001), and 1 characterized by cardiomyocyte hypertrophy (LA: +1.16 μm, P=0.008; RA: +2.58 μm, P<0.001). Patients with fibrotic atCM were more frequently female (LA: odds ratio [OR], 1.33, P=0.002; RA: OR, 1.54, P=0.004), with persistent AF (LA: OR, 1.22, P=0.036) or heart failure (LA: OR, 1.62, P<0.001). Hypertrophic features were more common in men (LA: OR=1.33, P=0.002; RA: OR, 1.54, P=0.004). CONCLUSIONS Fibrotic atCM is associated with female sex, persistent AF, and heart failure, while hypertrophic features are more common in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Winters
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Aaron Isaacs
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Michal Kawczynski
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Jos Maessen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Bas Boukens
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Ben Hermans
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, BHF Centre of Research Excellence University of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science UKE Hamburg Hamburg Germany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Winnie Chua
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
| | - Laura Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science UKE Hamburg Hamburg Germany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS) Barcelona Spain
| | - Luis Mont
- Clinic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Montserrat Batlle
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS) Barcelona Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cardiovascular (CIBERCV) Madrid Spain
| | | | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Reza Wakili
- Department of Medicine and Cardiology Goethe University Frankfurt Germany
| | - Mortiz Sinner
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
- Department of Cardiology University Hospital of Munich Munich Germany
| | - Monica Stoll
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical Genetics University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, Institute of Human Genetics University of Münster Münster Germany
| | - Andreas Goette
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine St. Vincenz Hospital Paderborn Paderborn Germany
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
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Zuin M, Rigatelli G, Bilato C. Weekend atrial fibrillation hospitalizations are associated with higher short-term mortality. Acta Cardiol 2023; 78:1006-1011. [PMID: 37339243 DOI: 10.1080/00015385.2023.2223007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous investigations have analysed the relationship between weekend (WE) admission and early death in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) patients without reaching univocal results. We systematically reviewed the available literature and performed a meta-analysis of data from cohort studies to estimate the association between WE admission and short-term mortality in AF patients. METHODS This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline. We searched relevant publications using MEDLINE and Scopus from inception until 15 November 2022. Studies reporting the mortality risk as an adjusted odds ratio (OR), with relative 95% confidence interval (CI) comparing early (in-hospital or 30-day) mortality between patients admitted during the WE (Friday to Sunday) versus weekdays (WD) and having confirmed AF were included into the analysis. Data were pooled using a random-effects models with OR and related 95% CI. RESULTS Overall, 5.164.986 AF patients (mean age 69.7 years old, 47.6% males) enrolled in five retrospective investigations were considered for the analysis. A random-effect model evidenced that AF patients admitted during the WE had a higher risk of 30-day or in-hospital death (adjusted OR: 1.57; 95% CI, 1.05-1.27, p = .003, I2 = 64.7%). Sensitivity analysis confirmed yielded results. A meta-regression analysis showed a relationship between mortality and the mean age of the studies included (p = .001) while no associations were identified using sex as moderating variables (p = .15). CONCLUSIONS Patients admitted during WE for AF are characterised by an approximately 58% excess in the risk of early death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zuin
- Department of Cardiology, West Vicenza Hospital, Arzignano, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Bilato
- Department of Cardiology, West Vicenza Hospital, Arzignano, Italy
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Johnson LS, Platonov PG, Conen D, Kennbäck C, Jujic A, Healey JS, Holm H, Sundström J, Engström G. Markers of Atrial Myopathy in the General Population: Prevalence, Predictors, and Inter-Relations. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2023; 9:2240-2249. [PMID: 37676201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial myopathy refers to structural and functional cardiac abnormalities associated with atrial fibrillation and stroke, but appropriate diagnostic criteria are lacking. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess prevalence, clinical correlates, and overlap between potential atrial myopathy markers. METHODS The population-based SCAPIS (Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study) prospectively included 6,013 subjects without atrial fibrillation with 24-hour electrocardiograms. Resting electrocardiograms measuring P-wave indices were collected at 1 screening site (n = 1,201), and a random sample (n = 385) had echocardiographic left atrial volume index (LAVi). Atrial myopathy markers were defined as ≥500 premature atrial complexes/24 h, LAVi ≥34 mL/m2, P-wave duration >120 milliseconds, or P-wave terminal force in V1 >4,000 ms·s. Clinical correlates included age, sex, body mass index, height, smoking, physical activity, coronary artery disease, diabetes, systolic blood pressure, antihypertensive medication, and low education. RESULTS Atrial myopathy was common; 42% of the sample with all diagnostic modalities available had ≥1 atrial myopathy marker, but only 9% had 2 and 0.3% had ≥3. Only P-wave duration and LAVi were correlated (ρ = 0.10; P = 0.04). Clinical correlates of premature atrial complexes, P-wave indices, and LAVi differed; current smoking (34% increase; P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (4%/mm Hg increase; P = 0.01), diabetes (35% increase; P = 0.001), and coronary artery disease (71% increase; P = 0.003) were associated with premature atrial complexes, physical activity ≥2 h/wk was associated with increased LAVi (β-coefficient = 3.1; P < 0.0001) and body mass index was associated with P-wave duration (β-coefficient = 0.4/kg/m2; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS In the general population, indirect markers of atrial myopathy are common but only weakly correlated, and their risk factor patterns are different. More studies are needed to accurately identify individuals with atrial myopathy with diagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Johnson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Pyotr G Platonov
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - David Conen
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cecilia Kennbäck
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Amra Jujic
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden; Department of Cardiology, Malmö University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Jeffrey S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hannes Holm
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Johan Sundström
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Engström
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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Xing LY, Diederichsen SZ, Højberg S, Krieger D, Graff C, Olesen MS, Nielsen JB, Brandes A, Køber L, Haugan KJ, Svendsen JH. Electrocardiographic Morphology-Voltage-P-Wave-Duration (MVP) Score to Select Patients for Continuous Atrial Fibrillation Screening to Prevent Stroke. Am J Cardiol 2023; 205:457-464. [PMID: 37666019 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Morphology-voltage-P-wave-duration (MVP) score combining P-wave duration (PWD), P-wave voltage in lead I (PWVI), and interatrial block (IAB) has been demonstrated to predict atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, this study aimed to examine MVP score and its P-wave components as potential predictors of AF screening effects on stroke prevention. This was a secondary analysis of the LOOP Study (Atrial Fibrillation detected by Continuous ECG Monitoring using Implantable Loop Recorder to prevent Stroke in High-risk Individuals) which randomized older persons (aged 70 to 90 years) with additional stroke risk factors to either continuous monitoring with implantable loop recorder and anticoagulation upon detection of AF episodes ≥6 minutes (the intervention group), or usual care. A total of 5,759 participants were included in the present analysis, where PWD, PWVI, and IAB were determined through a computerized analysis of 12-lead electrocardiogram and further employed to calculate baseline MVP score (0 to 6) for each participant. In total, 305 (5.3%) had stroke or systemic embolism during follow-up, with a higher risk in the group with MVP score 5 to 6 than those having score 0 to 2 (hazard ratio (HR) 1.54 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01 to 2.35]). This risk increase was mainly upheld by participants with IAB (HR 1.62 [95% CI 1.11 to 2.36] for IAB vs no IAB) and with longer PWD (HR 1.37 [95% CI 1.07 to 1.75] for >110 vs ≤110 ms). Compared with usual care, implantable loop recorder screening did not significantly reduce the risk of stroke or systemic embolism in any MVP risk categories (HR 0.80 [95% CI 0.60 to 1.08] for MVP score 0 to 2, 0.54 [95% CI 0.16 to 1.85] for MVP score 3 to 4, and 0.89 [95% CI 0.35 to 2.25] for MVP score 5 to 6; pinteraction = 0.78). In conclusion, a higher MVP score was associated with an increased stroke risk, but it did not demonstrate an association with effects of AF screening on stroke prevention. These findings should be considered hypothesis-generating and warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Yixi Xing
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Zealand University Hospital - Roskilde, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Søren Zöga Diederichsen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Højberg
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Derk Krieger
- Department of Neurology, Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, United Arabic Emirates; Department of Neuroscience, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Science, Dubai, United Arabic Emirates
| | - Claus Graff
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Morten Salling Olesen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Bille Nielsen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Axel Brandes
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Esbjerg Hospital - University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Lars Køber
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ketil Jørgen Haugan
- Department of Cardiology, Zealand University Hospital - Roskilde, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jesper Hastrup Svendsen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Lin J, Wu XY, Long DY, Jiang CX, Sang CH, Tang RB, Li SN, Wang W, Guo XY, Ning M, Sun ZQ, Yang N, Hao YC, Liu J, Liu J, Du X, Fonarow GC, Smith SC, Lip GYH, Zhao D, Dong JZ, Ma CS. Asymptomatic atrial fibrillation among hospitalized patients: clinical correlates and in-hospital outcomes in Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China-Atrial Fibrillation. Europace 2023; 25:euad272. [PMID: 37712716 PMCID: PMC10551228 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The clinical correlates and outcomes of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) in hospitalized patients are largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the clinical correlates and in-hospital outcomes of asymptomatic AF in hospitalized Chinese patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted a cross-sectional registry study of inpatients with AF enrolled in the Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China-Atrial Fibrillation Project between February 2015 and December 2019. We investigated the clinical characteristics of asymptomatic AF and the association between the clinical correlates and the in-hospital outcomes of asymptomatic AF. Asymptomatic and symptomatic AF were defined according to the European Heart Rhythm Association score. Asymptomatic patients were more commonly males (56.3%) and had more comorbidities such as hypertension (57.4%), diabetes mellitus (18.6%), peripheral artery disease (PAD; 2.3%), coronary artery disease (55.5%), previous history of stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA; 17.9%), and myocardial infarction (MI; 5.4%); however, they had less prevalent heart failure (9.6%) or left ventricular ejection fractions ≤40% (7.3%). Asymptomatic patients were more often hospitalized with a non-AF diagnosis as the main diagnosis and were more commonly first diagnosed with AF (23.9%) and long-standing persistent/permanent AF (17.0%). The independent determinants of asymptomatic presentation were male sex, long-standing persistent AF/permanent AF, previous history of stroke/TIA, MI, PAD, and previous treatment with anti-platelet drugs. The incidence of in-hospital clinical events such as all-cause death, ischaemic stroke/TIA, and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) was higher in asymptomatic patients than in symptomatic patients, and asymptomatic clinical status was an independent risk factor for in-hospital all-cause death, ischaemic stroke/TIA, and ACS. CONCLUSION Asymptomatic AF is common among hospitalized patients with AF. Asymptomatic clinical status is associated with male sex, comorbidities, and a higher risk of in-hospital outcomes. The adoption of effective management strategies for patients with AF should not be solely based on clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xue-Ying Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - De-Yong Long
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Chen-Xi Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Cai-Hua Sang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Ri-Bo Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Song-Nan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xue-Yuan Guo
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Man Ning
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zhao-Qing Sun
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Na Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Chen Hao
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Du
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Gregg C Fonarow
- Division of Cardiology, Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sidney C Smith
- Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Dong Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Zeng Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Chang-Sheng Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, 2 Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
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Boriani G, Imberti JF, Leyva F, Casado-Arroyo R, Chun J, Braunschweig F, Zylla MM, Duncker D, Farkowski MM, Pürerfellner H, Merino JL. Length of hospital stay for elective electrophysiological procedures: a survey from the European Heart Rhythm Association. Europace 2023; 25:euad297. [PMID: 37789664 PMCID: PMC10563655 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Electrophysiological (EP) operations that have traditionally involved long hospital lengths of stay (LOS) are now being undertaken as day case procedures. The coronavirus disease-19 pandemic served as an impetus for many centres to shorten LOS for EP procedures. This survey explores LOS for elective EP procedures in the modern era. METHODS AND RESULTS An online survey consisting of 27 multiple-choice questions was completed by 245 respondents from 35 countries. With respect to de novo cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantations, day case procedures were reported for 79.5% of implantable loop recorders, 13.3% of pacemakers (PMs), 10.4% of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and 10.2% of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices. With respect to CIED generator replacements, day case procedures were reported for 61.7% of PMs, 49.2% of ICDs, and 48.2% of CRT devices. With regard to ablations, day case procedures were reported for 5.7% of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablations, 10.7% of left-sided ablations, and 17.5% of right-sided ablations. A LOS ≥ 2 days for CIED implantation was reported for 47.7% of PM, 54.5% of ICDs, and 56.9% of CRT devices and for 54.5% of AF ablations, 42.2% of right-sided ablations, and 46.1% of left-sided ablations. Reimbursement (43-56%) and bed availability (20-47%) were reported to have no consistent impact on the organization of elective procedures. CONCLUSION There is a wide variation in the LOS for elective EP procedures. The LOS for some procedures appears disproportionate to their complexity. Neither reimbursement nor bed availability consistently influenced LOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 71, Modena 41124, Italy
- mHealth and Health Economics and PROM Committee of EHRA (European Heart Rhythm Association)
| | - Jacopo F Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 71, Modena 41124, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francisco Leyva
- mHealth and Health Economics and PROM Committee of EHRA (European Heart Rhythm Association)
- Department of Cardiology, Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Ruben Casado-Arroyo
- mHealth and Health Economics and PROM Committee of EHRA (European Heart Rhythm Association)
- Department of Cardiology, H.U.B.-Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels 1070, Belgium
| | - Julian Chun
- Medizinische Klinik III, CCB am Agaplesion Markus Krankenhaus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Frieder Braunschweig
- mHealth and Health Economics and PROM Committee of EHRA (European Heart Rhythm Association)
- Department of Medicine; Solna, Karolinska Institutet and ME Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Norrbacka S1:02, Eugeniavagen 27, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Maura M Zylla
- mHealth and Health Economics and PROM Committee of EHRA (European Heart Rhythm Association)
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - David Duncker
- Hannover Heart Rhythm Center, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Michał M Farkowski
- Department of Cardiology, Ministry of Interior and Administration National Medical Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Helmut Pürerfellner
- Ordensklinikum Linz Elisabethinen, Interne II/Kardiologie und Interne Intensivmedizin, Fadingerstraße 1, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - José L Merino
- Arrhythmia-Robotic Electrophysiology Unit, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autonoma, Madrid, Spain
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Chua W, Cardoso VR, Guasch E, Sinner MF, Al-Taie C, Brady P, Casadei B, Crijns HJGM, Dudink EAMP, Hatem SN, Kääb S, Kastner P, Mont L, Nehaj F, Purmah Y, Reyat JS, Schotten U, Sommerfeld LC, Zeemering S, Ziegler A, Gkoutos GV, Kirchhof P, Fabritz L. An angiopoietin 2, FGF23, and BMP10 biomarker signature differentiates atrial fibrillation from other concomitant cardiovascular conditions. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16743. [PMID: 37798357 PMCID: PMC10556075 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42331-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Early detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) enables initiation of anticoagulation and early rhythm control therapy to reduce stroke, cardiovascular death, and heart failure. In a cross-sectional, observational study, we aimed to identify a combination of circulating biomolecules reflecting different biological processes to detect prevalent AF in patients with cardiovascular conditions presenting to hospital. Twelve biomarkers identified by reviewing literature and patents were quantified on a high-precision, high-throughput platform in 1485 consecutive patients with cardiovascular conditions (median age 69 years [Q1, Q3 60, 78]; 60% male). Patients had either known AF (45%) or AF ruled out by 7-day ECG-monitoring. Logistic regression with backward elimination and a neural network approach considering 7 key clinical characteristics and 12 biomarker concentrations were applied to a randomly sampled discovery cohort (n = 933) and validated in the remaining patients (n = 552). In addition to age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), BMP10, ANGPT2, and FGF23 identified patients with prevalent AF (AUC 0.743 [95% CI 0.712, 0.775]). These circulating biomolecules represent distinct pathways associated with atrial cardiomyopathy and AF. Neural networks identified the same variables as the regression-based approach. The validation using regression yielded an AUC of 0.719 (95% CI 0.677, 0.762), corroborated using deep neural networks (AUC 0.784 [95% CI 0.745, 0.822]). Age, sex, BMI and three circulating biomolecules (BMP10, ANGPT2, FGF23) are associated with prevalent AF in unselected patients presenting to hospital. Findings should be externally validated. Results suggest that age and different disease processes approximated by these three biomolecules contribute to AF in patients. Our findings have the potential to improve screening programs for AF after external validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Chua
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Victor R Cardoso
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Health Data Research UK (HDR), Midlands Site, London, UK
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Moritz F Sinner
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Al-Taie
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, UKE Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul Brady
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Harry J G M Crijns
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elton A M P Dudink
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Stéphane N Hatem
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Stefan Kääb
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Lluis Mont
- Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Frantisek Nehaj
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Yanish Purmah
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jasmeet S Reyat
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura C Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, UKE Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - André Ziegler
- Roche Diagnostics International AG, Rotkreuz, Switzerland
| | - Georgios V Gkoutos
- MRC Health Data Research UK (HDR), Midlands Site, London, UK
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, UKE Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site: Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany.
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Patel RB, Reddy VY, Komtebedde J, Wegerich SW, Sekaric J, Swarup V, Walton A, Laurent G, Chetcuti S, Rademann M, Bergmann M, McKenzie S, Bugger H, Bruno RR, Herrmann HC, Nair A, Gupta DK, Lim S, Kapadia S, Gordon R, Vanderheyden M, Noel T, Bailey S, Gertz ZM, Trochu JN, Cutlip DE, Leon MB, Solomon SD, van Veldhuisen DJ, Auricchio A, Shah SJ. Atrial Fibrillation Burden and Atrial Shunt Therapy in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction. JACC. HEART FAILURE 2023; 11:1351-1362. [PMID: 37480877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and in heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). OBJECTIVES This study sought to describe AF burden and its clinical impact among individuals with HFpEF and HFmrEF who participated in a randomized clinical trial of atrial shunt therapy (REDUCE LAP-HF II [A Study to Evaluate the Corvia Medical, Inc IASD System II to Reduce Elevated Left Atrial Pressure in Patients with Heart Failure]) and to evaluate the effect of atrial shunt therapy on AF burden. METHODS Study investigators characterized AF burden among patients in the REDUCE LAP-HF II trial by using ambulatory cardiac patch monitoring at baseline (median patch wear time, 6 days) and over a 12-month follow-up (median patch wear time, 125 days). The investigators determined the association of baseline AF burden with long-term clinical events and examined the effect of atrial shunt therapy on AF burden over time. RESULTS Among 367 patients with cardiac monitoring data at baseline and follow-up, 194 (53%) had a history of AF or atrial flutter (AFL), and median baseline AF burden was 0.012% (IQR: 0%-1.3%). After multivariable adjustment, baseline AF burden ≥0.012% was significantly associated with heart failure (HF) events (HR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.17-3.44; P = 0.01) both with and without a history of AF or AFL (P for interaction = 0.68). Adjustment for left atrial reservoir strain attenuated the baseline AF burden-HF event association (HR: 1.71; 95% CI: 0.93-3.14; P = 0.08). Of the 367 patients, 141 (38%) had patch-detected AF during follow-up without a history of AF or AFL. Atrial shunt therapy did not change AF incidence or burden during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In HFpEF and HFmrEF, nearly 40% of patients have subclinical AF by 1 year. Baseline AF burden, even at low levels, is associated with HF events. Atrial shunt therapy does not affect AF incidence or burden. (A Study to Evaluate the Corvia Medical, Inc IASD System II to Reduce Elevated Left Atrial Pressure in Patients with Heart Failure [REDUCE LAP-HF II]; NCT03088033).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi B Patel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Illinois, USA
| | - Vivek Y Reddy
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gabriel Laurent
- Department of Cardiology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Stanley Chetcuti
- Division of Cardiology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Matthias Rademann
- Department of Cardiology, University of Giessen, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Department of Interventional Cardiology, Cardiologicum, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Scott McKenzie
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Heiko Bugger
- Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Raphael Romano Bruno
- Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Dusseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Howard C Herrmann
- Division of Cardiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ajith Nair
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deepak K Gupta
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Scott Lim
- Division of Cardiology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Samir Kapadia
- Division of Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Robert Gordon
- Division of Cardiology, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Thomas Noel
- Southern Medical Group, P.A., Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Steven Bailey
- Division of Cardiology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Zachary M Gertz
- Division of Cardiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jean-Noël Trochu
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, CNRS, INSERM, l'institut du thorax, Nantes, France
| | - Donald E Cutlip
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martin B Leon
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Scott D Solomon
- Division of Cardiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dirk J van Veldhuisen
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Angelo Auricchio
- Division of Cardiology, Ticino Cardiocentro Institute, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Sanjiv J Shah
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Weidlich S, Mannhart D, Serban T, Krisai P, Knecht S, Du Fay de Lavallaz J, Müller T, Schaer B, Osswald S, Kühne M, Sticherling C, Badertscher P. Accuracy in detecting atrial fibrillation in single-lead ECGs: an online survey comparing the influence of clinical expertise and smart devices. Swiss Med Wkly 2023; 153:40096. [PMID: 37769610 DOI: 10.57187/smw.2023.40096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Manual interpretation of single-lead ECGs (SL-ECGs) is often required to confirm a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. However accuracy in detecting atrial fibrillation via SL-ECGs may vary according to clinical expertise and choice of smart device. AIMS To compare the accuracy of cardiologists, internal medicine residents and medical students in detecting atrial fibrillation via SL-ECGs from five different smart devices (Apple Watch, Fitbit Sense, KardiaMobile, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Withings ScanWatch). Participants were also asked to assess the quality and readability of SL-ECGs. METHODS In this prospective study (BaselWearableStudy, NCT04809922), electronic invitations to participate in an online survey were sent to physicians at major Swiss hospitals and to medical students at Swiss universities. Participants were asked to classify up to 50 SL-ECGs (from ten patients and five devices) into three categories: sinus rhythm, atrial fibrillation or inconclusive. This classification was compared to the diagnosis via a near-simultaneous 12-lead ECG recording interpreted by two independent cardiologists. In addition, participants were asked their preference of each manufacturer's SL-ECG. RESULTS Overall, 450 participants interpreted 10,865 SL-ECGs. Sensitivity and specificity for the detection of atrial fibrillation via SL-ECG were 72% and 92% for cardiologists, 68% and 86% for internal medicine residents, 54% and 65% for medical students in year 4-6 and 44% and 58% for medical students in year 1-3; p <0.001. Participants who stated prior experience in interpreting SL-ECGs demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 63% and 81% compared to a sensitivity and specificity of 54% and 67% for participants with no prior experience in interpreting SL-ECGs (p <0.001). Of all participants, 107 interpreted all 50 SL-ECGs. Diagnostic accuracy for the first five interpreted SL-ECGs was 60% (IQR 40-80%) and diagnostic accuracy for the last five interpreted SL-ECGs was 80% (IQR 60-90%); p <0.001. No significant difference in the accuracy of atrial fibrillation detection was seen between the five smart devices; p = 0.33. SL-ECGs from the Apple Watch were considered as having the best quality and readability by 203 (45%) and 226 (50%) participants, respectively. CONCLUSION SL-ECGs can be challenging to interpret. Accuracy in correctly identifying atrial fibrillation depends on clinical expertise, while the choice of smart device seems to have no impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Weidlich
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Diego Mannhart
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Teodor Serban
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Krisai
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sven Knecht
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeanne Du Fay de Lavallaz
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tatjana Müller
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Beat Schaer
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Osswald
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kühne
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Sticherling
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Badertscher
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Krittayaphong R, Boonyapisit W, Sairat P, Lip GYH. Visit-to-Visit Heart Rate Variability in the Prediction of Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation. Thromb Haemost 2023; 123:920-929. [PMID: 37116533 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1768580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visit-to-visit heart rate variability (VVV-HR) has been associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We aimed to determine the predictive value of VVV-HR for adverse clinical outcomes in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS We used data from a prospective multicenter AF registry of 27 hospitals in Thailand during 2014 to 2017. After the baseline visit, patients were followed up every 6 months until 3 years. VVV-HR was calculated from the standard deviation of heart rate data from baseline visit and every follow-up visit. VVV-HR was categorized into four groups according to the quartiles. Clinical outcomes were all-cause death, ischemic stroke/systemic embolism (SE), and heart failure. Cox proportional hazard models were used for multivariable analysis. RESULTS There were a total of 3,174 patients (mean age: 67.7 years; 41.8% female). The incidence rates of all-cause death, ischemic stroke/SE, and heart failure were 3.10 (2.74-3.49), 1.42 (1.18-1.69), and 2.09 (1.80-2.42) per 100 person-years respectively. The average heart rate was 77.8 ± 11.0 bpm and the average of standard deviation of heart rate was 11.0 ± 5.9 bpm. VVV-HR Q4 was an independent predictor of all-cause death, ischemic stroke/SE, and heart failure with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.45 (95% confidence interval: 1.07-1.98), 2.02 (1.24-3.29), and 2.63 (1.75-3.96), respectively. VVV-HR still remained a significant predictor of clinical outcomes when analyzed based on coefficient of variation and variability independent of mean. CONCLUSION VVV-HR is an independent predictor for adverse clinical outcomes in patients with AF. A J-curve appearance was demonstrated for the effect of VVV-HR on all-cause death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rungroj Krittayaphong
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Warangkna Boonyapisit
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Poom Sairat
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Svennberg E, Caiani EG, Bruining N, Desteghe L, Han JK, Narayan SM, Rademakers FE, Sanders P, Duncker D. The digital journey: 25 years of digital development in electrophysiology from an Europace perspective. Europace 2023; 25:euad176. [PMID: 37622574 PMCID: PMC10450797 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Over the past 25 years there has been a substantial development in the field of digital electrophysiology (EP) and in parallel a substantial increase in publications on digital cardiology.In this celebratory paper, we provide an overview of the digital field by highlighting publications from the field focusing on the EP Europace journal. RESULTS In this journey across the past quarter of a century we follow the development of digital tools commonly used in the clinic spanning from the initiation of digital clinics through the early days of telemonitoring, to wearables, mobile applications, and the use of fully virtual clinics. We then provide a chronicle of the field of artificial intelligence, a regulatory perspective, and at the end of our journey provide a future outlook for digital EP. CONCLUSION Over the past 25 years Europace has published a substantial number of papers on digital EP, with a marked expansion in digital publications in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Svennberg
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Enrico G Caiani
- Politecnico di Milano, Electronic, Information and Biomedical Engineering Department, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Nico Bruining
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Information processing (Digital Cardiology), Erasmus Medical Center, Thoraxcenter, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lien Desteghe
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2056 Edegem, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Centre Hasselt, Jessa Hospital, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Janet K Han
- Division of Cardiology, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sanjiv M Narayan
- Cardiology Division, Cardiovascular Institute and Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, 5005 Adelaide, Australia
| | - David Duncker
- Hannover Heart Rhythm Center, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Varma N, Braunschweig F, Burri H, Hindricks G, Linz D, Michowitz Y, Ricci RP, Nielsen JC. Remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices and disease management. Europace 2023; 25:euad233. [PMID: 37622591 PMCID: PMC10451003 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This reviews the transition of remote monitoring of patients with cardiac electronic implantable devices from curiosity to standard of care. This has been delivered by technology evolution from patient-activated remote interrogations at appointed intervals to continuous monitoring that automatically flags clinically actionable information to the clinic for review. This model has facilitated follow-up and received professional society recommendations. Additionally, continuous monitoring has provided a new level of granularity of diagnostic data enabling extension of patient management from device to disease management. This ushers in an era of digital medicine with wider applications in cardiovascular medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Varma
- Cardiac Pacing and Electrophysiology, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44118, USA
| | | | - Haran Burri
- University Hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Dominik Linz
- Maastricht University Medical Center, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Yoav Michowitz
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
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Boriani G, Auricchio A, Botto GL, Joseph JM, Roberts GJ, Grammatico A, Nabutovsky Y, Piccini JP. Insertable cardiac monitoring results in higher rates of atrial fibrillation diagnosis and oral anticoagulation prescription after ischaemic stroke. Europace 2023; 25:euad212. [PMID: 37490349 PMCID: PMC10403249 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS After an ischaemic stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF) detection allows for improved secondary prevention strategies. This study aimed to compare AF detection and oral anticoagulant (OAC) initiation in patients with an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) vs. external cardiac monitor (ECM) after ischaemic stroke. METHODS AND RESULTS Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) insurance claims and Abbott Labs device registration data were used to identify patients hospitalized with an ischaemic stroke in 2017-2019 who received an ICM or ECM within 3 months. Patients with continuous Medicare FFS insurance and prescription drug enrolment in the prior year were included. Patients with prior AF, atrial flutter, cardiac devices, or OAC were excluded. Insertable cardiac monitor and ECM patients were propensity score matched 1:4 on demographics, comorbidities, and stroke hospitalization characteristics. The outcomes of interest were AF detection and OAC initiation evaluated with Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. A total of 5702 Medicare beneficiaries (ICM, n = 444; ECM, n = 5258) met inclusion criteria. The matched cohort consisted of 2210 Medicare beneficiaries (ICM, n = 442; ECM, n = 1768) with 53% female, mean age 75 years, and mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc score 4.6 (1.6). Insertable cardiac monitor use was associated with a higher probability of AF detection [(hazard ratio (HR) 2.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) (2.31, 3.59)] and OAC initiation [HR 2.91, CI (2.28, 3.72)] compared to patients monitored only with ECM. CONCLUSION Patients with an ischaemic stroke monitored with an ICM were almost three times more likely to be diagnosed with AF and to be prescribed OAC compared to patients who received ECM only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo, 71, Modena 41124, Italy
| | - Angelo Auricchio
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Luca Botto
- Department of Cardiology—Electrophysiology, ASST Rhodense, Civile Hospital Rho and Salvini Hospital Garbagnate Milanese Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Schnabel RB, Ameri P, Siller-Matula JM, Diemberger I, Gwechenberger M, Pecen L, Manu MC, Souza J, De Caterina R, Kirchhof P. Outcomes of patients with atrial fibrillation on oral anticoagulation with and without heart failure: the ETNA-AF-Europe registry. Europace 2023; 25:euad280. [PMID: 37713182 PMCID: PMC10540669 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Heart failure (HF) is a risk factor for major adverse events in atrial fibrillation (AF). Whether this risk persists on non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and varies according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is debated. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated the relation of HF in the ETNA-AF-Europe registry, a prospective, multicentre, observational study with an overall 4-year follow-up of edoxaban-treated AF patients. We report 2-year follow-up for ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA)/systemic embolic events (SEE), major bleeding, and mortality. Of the 13 133 patients, 1854 (14.1%) had HF. Left ventricular ejection fraction was available for 82.4% of HF patients and was <40% in 671 (43.9%) and ≥40% in 857 (56.1%). Patients with HF were older, more often men, and had more comorbidities. Annualized event rates (AnERs) of any stroke/SEE were 0.86%/year and 0.67%/year in patients with and without HF. Compared with patients without HF, those with HF also had higher AnERs for major bleeding (1.73%/year vs. 0.86%/year) and all-cause death (8.30%/year vs. 3.17%/year). Multivariate Cox proportional models confirmed HF as a significant predictor of major bleeding [hazard ratio (HR) 1.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20-2.26] and all-cause death [HF with LVEF <40% (HR 2.42, 95% CI: 1.95-3.00) and HF with LVEF ≥40% (HR 1.80, 95% CI: 1.45-2.23)] but not of ischaemic stroke/TIA/SEE. CONCLUSION Anticoagulated patients with HF at baseline featured higher rates of major bleeding and all-cause death, requiring optimized management and novel preventive strategies. NOAC treatment was similarly effective in reducing risk of ischaemic events in patients with or without concomitant HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renate B Schnabel
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, University Heart and Vascular Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Buildung O50, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Potsdamer Str, 5810785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Pietro Ameri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Department, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Igor Diemberger
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Cardiology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Ladislav Pecen
- Czech Academy of Science, Institute of Computer Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Immunochemistry Diagnostics, University Hospital Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | | | - José Souza
- Daiichi Sankyo Europe GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Raffaele De Caterina
- Cardiology Division, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
- Fondazione Villa Serena per la Ricerca, Pescara, Italy
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Centre Hamburg, University Medical Centre Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Sciences (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
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Matsuda Y, Masuda M, Asai M, Iida O, Okamoto S, Ishihara T, Nanto K, Tsujimura T, Hata Y, Uematsu H, Higashino N, Toyoshima T, Mano T. Low atrial natriuretic peptide to brain natriuretic peptide ratio is associated with left atrial remodeling. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:544-551. [PMID: 37161971 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) deficiency is thought to be one of the causes of heart failure induced by atrial fibrillation (AF). Although ANP deficiency is thought to occur as a result of atrial remodeling, data to explain this mechanism are limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between ANP and left atrial remodeling or prognosis of heart failure in patients with AF ablation. METHODS In total, 373 consecutive patients who underwent initial ablation for persistent AF [age, 67 ± 10 years; female, 97 (26%)] were retrospectively enrolled. ANP and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were measured before the procedure and the ANP/BNP ratio was calculated. Left atrial volume index, left atrial appendage emptying velocity, and left atrial low-voltage areas (LVAs) were used as left atrial-remodeling parameters. The primary outcome of heart failure was defined as the composite of all-cause death or hospitalization due to worsening heart failure. RESULTS The median ANP level was 116 (71-178) pg/ml and the median ANP/BNP ratio was 0.65 (0.46-1.00). The ANP/BNP ratio decreased with increasing left atrial volume index or LVAs and with decreasing left atrial appendage emptying velocity. During the 5-year follow-up, freedom from the primary outcome was significantly lower in patients with ANP/BNP ratio ≤0.65 than in those with ANP/BNP ratio >0.65 (84.6% versus 95.6%, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Secretion of ANP relative to BNP decreased with progression of left atrial remodeling in patients with AF ablation. Furthermore, prognosis of heart failure was poor in patients with a low ANP/BNP ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Matsuda
- Kansai Rosai Hospital Cardiovascular Center, Amagasaki, Hyogo, Japan
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Chung HG, Park J, Park JK, Kang KW, Shim J, Kim JB, Kim J, Choi EK, Park HW, Lee YS, Joung B. Rhythm Control and Cardiovascular or Cerebrovascular Outcomes in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Study of the CODE-AF Registry. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4579. [PMID: 37510693 PMCID: PMC10380641 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is not clear whether the data regarding rhythm control during atrial fibrillation (AF) contained in AF registries is prognostically significant. Thus, this study investigated the relationship between rhythm control and cardiovascular outcomes in patients in contemporary AF registries. METHODS This study was conducted using data from 6670 patients with AF receiving oral anticoagulation in the CODE-AF registry. We used propensity overlap weighting to account for differences in baseline characteristics between the rhythm control and rate control groups. The primary outcome was a composite of the rate of death due to cardiovascular causes, stroke, acute coronary syndrome, and heart failure. The secondary outcomes were individual components of the primary outcome. RESULTS In the CODE-AF registry, 5407 (81.1%) patients were enrolled three months after AF diagnosis. During a median follow-up period of 973 days (interquartile range: 755-1089 days), a primary outcome event occurred in 72 patients in the rhythm control group (1.4 events per 100 person-years) and in 211 patients in the rate control group (1.8 events per 100 person-years). However, after overlap weighting, the incidence rates were 1.4 and 1.5 events per 100 person-years, respectively. No significant difference was found in either the primary outcome (weighted HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.66-1.17; p = 0.363) or secondary outcomes between the rhythm control and rate control groups. CONCLUSION In a prospective AF registry in which most of the population was enrolled at least three months after AF diagnosis, no difference in the risk of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular outcomes was found between the rhythm control and rate control groups, suggesting the early rhythm control should be considered to improve the outcome of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Gi Chung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonseiro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Junbeom Park
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Kyu Park
- Department of Cardiology, Hanyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Woon Kang
- Division of Cardiology, Eulji University Hospital, Daejeon 35233, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaemin Shim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Medical Center, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Bae Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Kim
- Heart Institute, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Eue-Keun Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Wook Park
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Soo Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Daegu Catholic University Medical Center, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Boyoung Joung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonseiro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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47
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Molnár AÁ, Sánta A, Pásztor DT, Merkely B. Atrial Cardiomyopathy in Valvular Heart Disease: From Molecular Biology to Clinical Perspectives. Cells 2023; 12:1796. [PMID: 37443830 PMCID: PMC10340254 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the evolving topic of atrial cardiomyopathy concerning valvular heart disease. The pathogenesis of atrial cardiomyopathy involves multiple factors, such as valvular disease leading to atrial structural and functional remodeling due to pressure and volume overload. Atrial enlargement and dysfunction can trigger atrial tachyarrhythmia. The complex interaction between valvular disease and atrial cardiomyopathy creates a vicious cycle of aggravating atrial enlargement, dysfunction, and valvular disease severity. Furthermore, atrial remodeling and arrhythmia can predispose to atrial thrombus formation and stroke. The underlying pathomechanism of atrial myopathy involves molecular, cellular, and subcellular alterations resulting in chronic inflammation, atrial fibrosis, and electrophysiological changes. Atrial dysfunction has emerged as an essential determinant of outcomes in valvular disease and heart failure. Despite its predictive value, the detection of atrial fibrosis and dysfunction is challenging and is not included in the clinical routine. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging are the main diagnostic tools for atrial cardiomyopathy. Recently published data have revealed that both left atrial volumes and functional parameters are independent predictors of cardiovascular events in valvular disease. The integration of atrial function assessment in clinical practice might help in early cardiovascular risk estimation, promoting early therapeutic intervention in valvular disease.
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48
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Jensen M, Al-Shahi Salman R, Ng GA, van der Worp HB, Loh P, Campbell BCV, Kalman JM, Hill MD, Sposato LA, Andrade JG, Metzner A, Kirchhof P, Thomalla G. Current practice and attitudes of stroke physicians towards rhythm-control therapy for stroke prevention: results of an international survey. Neurol Res Pract 2023; 5:29. [PMID: 37408025 PMCID: PMC10324107 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-023-00255-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF) are at particularly high risk for recurrent stroke and cardiovascular events. Early rhythm control has been shown to be superior to usual care for the prevention of stroke and cardiovascular events for people with early AF. There are no data on the willingness to use rhythm control for patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke in clinical practice. METHODS An online survey was carried out among stroke physicians to assess current practice and attitudes toward rhythm control in patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke between December 22nd 2021 and March 24th 2022. RESULTS The survey was completed by 277 physicians including 237 from 15 known countries and 40 from unspecified countries. 79% (210/266) reported that they do not regularly apply treatment for rhythm control by ablation or antiarrhythmic drugs at all or only in small numbers (≤ 10%) of patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke. In those patients treated with rhythm-control therapy, antiarrhythmic drugs were used by the majority of respondents (89%), while only a minority reported using AF ablation (11%). 88% of respondents (221/250) stated that they would be willing to randomize patients with AF after acute ischemic stroke to either early rhythm control or usual care in a clinical trial. CONCLUSION Despite its potential benefit, few patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke appear to be treated with rhythm control, which may result from uncertainty regarding potential complications of antiarrhythmic therapy in patients with acute stroke. Together with recent data on the effectiveness of early rhythm control in patients with a history of stroke, these results call for a randomized clinical trial to assess the efficacy of early rhythm control in patients with acute ischemic stroke and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Märit Jensen
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK e.V.), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany.
| | | | - G Andre Ng
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, National Institute for Health Research Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, UK
| | - H Bart van der Worp
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Loh
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center, Utrecht Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bruce C V Campbell
- Department of Medicine and Neurology, Melbourne Brain Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Kalman
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael D Hill
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Luciano A Sposato
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Heart and Brain Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason G Andrade
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Montréal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andreas Metzner
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK e.V.), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK e.V.), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Götz Thomalla
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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49
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Toennis T, Bertaglia E, Brandes A, Dichtl W, Fluschnik N, de Groot JR, Marijon E, Mont L, Lundqvist CB, Cabanelas N, Dan GA, Lubinski A, Merkely B, Rajappan K, Sarkozy A, Velchev V, Wichterle D, Kirchhof P. The influence of atrial high-rate episodes on stroke and cardiovascular death: an update. Europace 2023; 25:euad166. [PMID: 37345804 PMCID: PMC10319778 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE) are atrial tachyarrhythmias detected by continuous rhythm monitoring by pacemakers, defibrillators, or implantable cardiac monitors. Atrial high-rate episodes occur in 10-30% of elderly patients without atrial fibrillation. However, it remains unclear whether the presence of these arrhythmias has therapeutic consequences. The presence of AHRE increases the risk of stroke compared with patients without AHRE. Oral anticoagulation would have the potential to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with AHRE but is also associated with a rate of major bleeding of ∼2%/year. The stroke rate in patients with AHRE appears to be lower than the stroke rate in patients with atrial fibrillation. Wearables like smart-watches will increase the absolute number of patients in whom atrial arrhythmias are detected. It remains unclear whether anticoagulation is effective and, equally important, safe in patients with AHRE. Two randomized clinical trials, NOAH-AFNET6 and ARTESiA, are expected to report soon. They will provide much-needed information on the efficacy and safety of oral anticoagulation in patients with AHRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Toennis
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Emanuele Bertaglia
- Department of Cardiac, Vascular, Thoracic and Public Health Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliera, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Axel Brandes
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Wolfgang Dichtl
- University Hospital of Internal Medicine III, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nina Fluschnik
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joris R de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eloi Marijon
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Lluis Mont
- Cardiovascular Clinical Institute, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Carina Blomström Lundqvist
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Department of Cardiology, School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Medical Science, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nuno Cabanelas
- Arrhythmias Unit of Cardiology Department, Hospital Prof. Dr. Fernando Fonseca, 2720-276 Amadora-Sintra, Portugal
| | - G Andrei Dan
- Department 5, Colentina University Hospital, Medicine University ‘Carol Davila’, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Andrzej Lubinski
- Department of Cardiology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Gdańsk,80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Béla Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University Budapest, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kim Rajappan
- Cardiac Department, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Andrea Sarkozy
- Ventricular Arrhythmia and Sudden Death Management Unit, Heart Rhythm Management Center, University Hospital of Brussels, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vasil Velchev
- Cardiology Clinic, St. Anna University Hospital, Medical University Sofia, 1750, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dan Wichterle
- Department of Cardiology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 140 21 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, UHB and Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trusts, IBR 126a, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET), 48149 Muenster, Germany
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50
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Geurts S, Tilly MJ, Kors JA, Deckers JW, Stricker BHC, de Groot NMS, Ikram MA, Kavousi M. Electrocardiographic parameters and the risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation in the general population: the Rotterdam Study. Europace 2023; 25:euad164. [PMID: 37369558 PMCID: PMC10299895 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to assess the (shape of the) association and sex differences in the link between electrocardiographic parameters and new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 12 212 participants free of AF at baseline from the population-based Rotterdam Study were included. Up to five repeated measurements of electrocardiographic parameters including PR, QRS, QT, QT corrected for heart rate (QTc), JT, RR interval, and heart rate were assessed at baseline and follow-up examinations. Cox proportional hazards- and joint models, adjusted for cardiovascular risk factors, were used to determine the (shape of the) association between baseline and longitudinal electrocardiographic parameters with new-onset AF. Additionally, we evaluated potential sex differences. During a median follow-up of 9.3 years, 1282 incident AF cases occurred among 12 212 participants (mean age 64.9 years, 58.2% women). Penalized cubic splines revealed that associations between baseline electrocardiographic measures and risk of new-onset AF were generally U- and N-shaped. Sex differences in terms of the shape of the various associations were most apparent for baseline PR, QT, QTc, RR interval, and heart rate in relation to new-onset AF. Longitudinal measures of higher PR interval [fully adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.43, 1.02-2.04, P = 0.0393] and higher QTc interval (fully adjusted HR, 95% CI, 5.23, 2.18-12.45, P = 0.0002) were significantly associated with new-onset AF, in particular in men. CONCLUSION Associations of baseline electrocardiographic measures and risk of new-onset AF were mostly U- and N-shaped. Longitudinal electrocardiographic measures of PR and QTc interval were significantly associated with new-onset AF, in particular among men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Geurts
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn J Tilly
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan A Kors
- Department of Medical Informatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap W Deckers
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bruno H C Stricker
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Natasja M S de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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