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Tsiachris D, Argyriou N, Tsioufis P, Antoniou CK, Laina A, Oikonomou G, Doundoulakis I, Kordalis A, Dimitriadis K, Gatzoulis K, Tsioufis K. Aggressive Rhythm Control Strategy in Atrial Fibrillation Patients Presenting at the Emergency Department: The HEROMEDICUS Study Design and Initial Results. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2024; 11:109. [PMID: 38667727 PMCID: PMC11049958 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd11040109] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation has progressively become a more common reason for emergency department visits, representing 0.5% of presenting reasons. Registry data have indicated that about 60% of atrial fibrillation patients who present to the emergency department are admitted, emphasizing the need for more efficient management of atrial fibrillation in the acute phase. Management of atrial fibrillation in the setting of the emergency department varies between countries and healthcare systems. The most plausible reason to justify a conservative rather than an aggressive strategy in the management of atrial fibrillation is the absence of specific guidelines from diverse societies. Several trials of atrial fibrillation treatment strategies, including cardioversion, have demonstrated that atrial fibrillation in the emergency department can be treated safely and effectively, avoiding admission. In the present study, we present the epidemiology and characteristics of atrial fibrillation patients presenting to the emergency department, as well as the impact of diverse management strategies on atrial-fibrillation-related hospital admissions. Lastly, the design and initial data of the HEROMEDICUS protocol will be presented, which constitutes an electrophysiology-based aggressive rhythm control strategy in patients with atrial fibrillation in the emergency department setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Tsiachris
- First Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.A.); (P.T.); (C.K.A.); (A.L.); (G.O.); (A.K.); (K.D.); (K.G.); (K.T.)
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deSouza IS, Shrestha P, Allen R, Koos J, Thode H. Safety and Effectiveness of Antidysrhythmic Drugs for Pharmacologic Cardioversion of Recent-Onset Atrial Fibrillation: a Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-analysis. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2024:10.1007/s10557-024-07552-6. [PMID: 38324103 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-024-07552-6] [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] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The available evidence to determine which antidysrhythmic drug is superior for pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset (onset within 48 h) atrial fibrillation (AF) is uncertain. We aimed to identify the safest and most effective agent for pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset AF in the emergency department. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to February 21, 2023 (PROSPERO: CRD42018083781). Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials that enrolled adult participants with AF ≤ 48 h, compared a guideline-recommended antidysrhythmic drug with another antidysrhythmic drug or a different formulation of the same drug or placebo and reported specific adverse events. The primary outcome was immediate, serious adverse event - cardiac arrest, sustained ventricular tachydysrhythmia, atrial flutter 1:1 atrioventricular conduction, hypotension, and bradycardia. Additional analyses included the outcomes of conversion to sinus rhythm within 4 h and 24 h. We extracted data according to PRISMA-NMA and appraised trials using Cochrane RoB 2. We performed Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo method with random-effect model and vague prior distribution to calculate odds ratios with 95% credible intervals. We assessed confidence using CINeMA. We used surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) to rank agent(s). RESULTS The systematic review initially identified 5545 studies. Twenty-five studies met eligibility criteria, and 22 studies (n = 3082) provided data for NMA, which demonstrated that vernakalant (SUCRA = 70.9%) is most likely to be safest. Additional effectiveness NMA demonstrated that flecainide (SUCRA = 89.0%) is most likely to be superior for conversion within 4 h (27 studies; n = 2681), and ranolazine-amiodarone IV (SUCRA 93.7%) is most likely to be superior for conversion within 24 h (24 studies; n = 3213). Confidence in the NMA estimates is variable and limited mostly by within-study bias and imprecision. CONCLUSIONS Among guideline-recommended antidysrhythmic drugs, the combination of digoxin IV and amiodarone IV is definitely among the least safe for cardioversion of recent onset AF; flecainide, vernakalant, ibutilide, propafenone, and amiodarone IV are definitely among the most effective for cardioversion within 4 h; flecainide is definitely among the most effective for cardioversion within 24 h. Further, randomized controlled trials with predetermined and strictly defined, hemodynamic adverse event outcomes are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian S deSouza
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University and Kings County Hospital Center, 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
| | - Pragati Shrestha
- Department of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Robert Allen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Los Angeles General Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Koos
- Health Sciences Library, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Henry Thode
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Olanisa OO, Jain P, Khan QS, Vemulapalli AC, Elias AA, Yerramsetti MD, Nath TS. Which Is Better? Rate Versus Rhythm Control in Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e49869. [PMID: 38169694 PMCID: PMC10758588 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The optimal approach to managing AF, specifically rate control versus rhythm control, remains a topic of debate in clinical practice. This systematic review aims to compare the rate control and rhythm control strategies based on their clinical outcomes, quality of life, and adverse events associated with them. A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Research Gate, MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), Scopus, and Embase (Excerpta Medica dataBASE) databases. A total of 1657 research papers were identified through the search strategy, and after applying the eligibility criteria, 28 studies were selected for the analysis. The studies encompassed a range of methodologies, including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for study selection, data extraction, and analysis. The outcomes of interest included all: cause mortality, stroke, bleeding events, cardiovascular hospitalizations, quality of life, and adverse effects of treatment. Data were synthesized and presented in tables, charts, and forest plots for meta-analysis where appropriate. The results indicate that both rate control and rhythm control strategies have their own merits and limitations, with the outcomes varying based on patient characteristics and comorbidities. While rhythm control strategies may lead to better symptom control and improved quality of life, rate control strategies may be associated with lower risks of adverse events and complications. This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding rate and rhythm control strategies in AF management, offering insights for clinical decision-making and highlighting the need for individualized treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olawale O Olanisa
- Internal Medicine, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids, USA
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Payal Jain
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Qasim S Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | | | - Abanob A Elias
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Monica D Yerramsetti
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Lebovitz S, Estryk M, Zimmerman DR, Pollak A, Luria D, Amir O, Biton Y. Trends in Atrial Fibrillation Management-Results from a National Multi-Center Urgent Care Network Registry. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6704. [PMID: 37959170 PMCID: PMC10650842 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216704] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common diagnosis in patients presenting to urgent care centers (UCCs), yet there is scant research regarding treatment in these centers. While some of these patients are managed within UCCs, some are referred for further care in an emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVES We aimed to identify the rate of patients referred to an ED and define predictors for this outcome. We analyzed the rates of AF diagnosis and hospital referral over the years. Finally, we described trends in patient anticoagulation (AC) medication use. METHODS This retrospective study included 5873 visits of patients over age 18 visiting the TEREM UCC network with a diagnosis of AF over 11 years. Multivariate analysis was used to identify predictors for ED referral. RESULTS In a multivariate model, predictors of referral to an ED included vascular disease (OR 1.88 (95% CI 1.43-2.45), p < 0.001), evening or night shifts (OR 1.31 (95% CI 1.11-1.55), p < 0.001; OR 1.68 (95% CI 1.32-2.15), p < 0.001; respectively), previously diagnosed AF (OR 0.31 (95% CI 0.26-0.37), p < 0.001), prior treatment with AC (OR 0.56 (95% CI 0.46-0.67), p < 0.001), beta blockers (OR 0.63 (95% CI 0.52-0.76), p < 0.001), and antiarrhythmic medication (OR 0.58 (95% CI 0.48-0.69), p < 0.001). Visits diagnosed with AF increased over the years (p = 0.030), while referrals to an ED decreased over the years (p = 0.050). The rate of novel oral anticoagulant prescriptions increased over the years. CONCLUSIONS The rate of referral to an ED from a UCC over the years is declining but remains high. Referrals may be predicted using simple clinical variables. This knowledge may help to reduce the burden of hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalom Lebovitz
- Department of Cardiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel (O.A.)
- TEREM—Emergency Medical Centers, Jerusalem 97775, Israel
| | | | | | - Arthur Pollak
- Department of Cardiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel (O.A.)
| | - David Luria
- Department of Cardiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel (O.A.)
| | - Offer Amir
- Department of Cardiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel (O.A.)
| | - Yitschak Biton
- Department of Cardiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel (O.A.)
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Zapata J, Akopian E, Yvanovich A. Strategies for rate and rhythm control of atrial fibrillation in the ED. JAAPA 2023; Published Ahead of Print:01720610-990000000-00067. [PMID: 37399473 DOI: 10.1097/01.jaa.0000944600.04370.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common dysrhythmias managed in the ED and accounts for more than half a million visits a year in the United States. More than 6 out of 10 of these visits result in admissions. As the prevalence of AF has continued to increase in recent years, so has the presentation of patients with AF to the ED. For these reasons, clinicians in emergency settings must be knowledgeable of evidence-based rate and rhythm control strategies for stabilizing patients and preventing complications. This article discusses options, indications, contraindications, and safe implementation of rate and rhythm control strategies for ED clinicians. Recent studies have suggested that early rhythm control may benefit newly diagnosed patients, reducing stroke risk, cardiovascular deaths, and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Zapata
- James Zapata is a faculty member of the emergency medicine fellowship at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton, Calif., an assistant professor at California Baptist University in Riverside, Calif., an adjunct professor of emergency medicine at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, Calif., and an adjunct professor at the University of La Verne in La Verne, Calif. Erik Akopian practices emergency medicine at Antelope Valley Hospital in Lancaster, Calif., and Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank, Calif., and is on the clinical faculty of the emergency medicine residency program at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Anthony Yvanovich practices at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise
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Tsioufis P, Tsiachris D, Doundoulakis I, Kordalis A, Antoniou CK, Vlachakis PK, Theofilis P, Manta E, Gatzoulis KA, Parissis J, Tsioufis K. Rationale and Design of a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial on the Safety and Efficacy of Flecainide versus Amiodarone in the Cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation at the Emergency Department in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease (FLECA-ED). J Clin Med 2023; 12:3961. [PMID: 37373655 PMCID: PMC10299428 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12123961] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmacologic cardioversion is a well-established alternative to electric cardioversion for hemodynamically stable patients, as it skips the risks associated with anesthesia. A recent network meta-analysis identifies the most effective antiarrhythmics for pharmacologic cardioversion with flecainide exhibiting a more efficacious and safer profile towards faster cardioversion. Moreover, the meta-analysis of class Ic antiarrhythmics revealed an absence of adverse events when used for pharmacologic cardioversion of AF in the ED, including patients with structural heart disease. The primary goals of this clinical trial are to prove the superiority of flecainide over amiodarone in the successful cardioversion of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the Emergency Department and to prove that the safety of flecainide is non-inferior to amiodarone in patients with coronary artery disease without residual ischemia, and an ejection fraction over 35%. The secondary goals of this study are to prove the superiority of flecainide over amiodarone in the reduction in hospitalizations from the Emergency Department due to atrial fibrillation in the time taken to achieve cardioversion, and in the reduction in the need to conduct electrical cardioversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tsiachris
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Doundoulakis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kordalis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - Christos-Konstantinos Antoniou
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | - Panayotis K. Vlachakis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - Eleni Manta
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - Konstantinos A. Gatzoulis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
| | - John Parissis
- Emergency Department, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippocration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (I.D.); (A.K.); (E.M.); (K.A.G.); (K.T.)
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Tsiachris D, Doundoulakis I, Tsioufis P, Pagkalidou E, Antoniou CK, Zafeiropoulos SM, Gatzoulis KA, Tsioufis K, Stefanadis C. Reappraising the role of class Ic antiarrhythmics in atrial fibrillation. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 78:1039-1045. [PMID: 35190869 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-022-03296-0] [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: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of the present systematic review was to compare the effectiveness and safety of class Ic agents for cardioversion of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF), in patients with and without structural heart disease (SHD). METHODS We focused on RCTs enrolling at least 50 adult patients with electrocardiogram-documented paroxysmal AF that compared either two pharmacological class Ic cardioversion agents (flecainide, propafenone), regardless of study design (parallel or crossover). We searched MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Initial search was performed from inception to 15 July 2021 with no language restrictions. RESULTS Intravenous flecainide is the most effective option for pharmacologic cardioversion of AF since only 2 patients need to be treated in order to cardiovert one more within 4 h. Most importantly, class Ic agents appear to be safe in the context of pharmacologic cardioversion of AF irrespective of the presence of SHD, pointing towards a possible reappraisal of the role in this setting. CONCLUSION We suggest that class Ic agents (with flecainide appearing to be more effective) should be used for pharmacologic cardioversion in stable AF patients presenting in emergency department with unknown medical history, after excluding severe cardiac disease through a bedside examination. REGISTRATION NUMBER (DOI) Available in https://osf.io/apwt7/ , https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/APWT7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Tsiachris
- Athens Medical Center, Athens Heart Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece. .,First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University, "Hippokration" Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | - Ioannis Doundoulakis
- Athens Medical Center, Athens Heart Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University, "Hippokration" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University, "Hippokration" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Eirini Pagkalidou
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Stefanos M Zafeiropoulos
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA.,Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Konstantinos A Gatzoulis
- First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University, "Hippokration" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University, "Hippokration" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Christodoulos Stefanadis
- Athens Medical Center, Athens Heart Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece.,Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Factors associated with poor prognosis in patients with atrial fibrillation: An emergency department perspective the EMERG-AF study. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 50:270-277. [PMID: 34418718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to identify the factors associated with a worse prognosis in Emergency Department (ED) patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), crucial information to guide management decisions. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a prospective, multicenter, observational cohort of consecutive AF patients attended in 62 EDs in Spain. Clinical variables were collected on enrollment. Follow-up was performed at 30 days and one year. The primary composite outcome was all-cause mortality, major bleeding and/or stroke at one year. Secondary outcomes were each of these components considered separately, plus one-year cardiovascular mortality and the composite outcome at 30 days. RESULTS We analyzed 1107 patients. The primary outcome occurred in 209 patients (18.9%), one-year all-cause mortality in 151 (13.6%), major bleeding in 47 (4.2%), and stroke in 31 (2.8%). Disability (HR 2.064, 95% CI 1.478-2.882), previous known AF (HR 1.829, 95% CI 1.096-3.051), long duration of the AF episode (HR 1.849, 95% CI 1.052-3.252) and renal failure (HR 2.073, 95% CI 1.433-2.999) were independently associated with the primary outcome, whereas anticoagulation at discharge was inversely associated (HR 0.576, 95% CI 0.415-0.801). Disability was associated with mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and the composite at 30 days, and renal failure with mortality and major bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Comorbidities like renal failure, long AF duration and disability were related to adverse outcomes and should be decisive to guide management decisions in ED patients with AF. Anticoagulation had a positive impact on prognosis and should be the mainstay of therapy in AF patients attended in ED.
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deSouza IS, Tadrous M, Sexton T, Benabbas R, Carmelli G, Sinert R. Pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Europace 2021; 22:854-869. [PMID: 32176779 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS We sought to identify the most effective antidysrhythmic drug for pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS AND RESULTS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to March 2019, limited to human subjects and English language. We also searched for unpublished data. We limited studies to randomized controlled trials that enrolled adult patients with AF ≤ 48 h and compared antidysrhythmic agents, placebo, or control. We determined these outcomes prior to data extraction: (i) rate of conversion to sinus rhythm within 24 h, (ii) time to cardioversion to sinus rhythm, (iii) rate of significant adverse events, and (iv) rate of thromboembolism within 30 days. We extracted data according to PRISMA-NMA and appraised selected trials using the Cochrane review handbook. The systematic review initially identified 640 studies; 30 met inclusion criteria. Twenty-one trials that randomized 2785 patients provided efficacy data for the conversion rate outcome. Bayesian network meta-analysis using a random-effects model demonstrated that ranolazine + amiodarone intravenous (IV) [odds ratio (OR) 39.8, 95% credible interval (CrI) 8.3-203.1], vernakalant (OR 22.9, 95% CrI 3.7-146.3), flecainide (OR 16.9, 95% CrI 4.1-73.3), amiodarone oral (OR 10.2, 95% CrI 3.1-36.0), ibutilide (OR 7.9, 95% CrI 1.2-52.5), amiodarone IV (OR 5.4, 95% CrI 2.1-14.6), and propafenone (OR 4.1, 95% CrI 1.7-10.5) were associated with significantly increased likelihood of conversion within 24 h when compared to placebo/control. Overall quality was low, and the network exhibited inconsistency. Probabilistic analysis ranked vernakalant and flecainide high and propafenone and amiodarone IV low. CONCLUSION For pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset AF within 24 h, there is insufficient evidence to determine which treatment is superior. Vernakalant and flecainide may be relatively more efficacious agents. Propafenone and IV amiodarone may be relatively less efficacious. Further high-quality study is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian S deSouza
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11203, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada.,Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Theresa Sexton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11203, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Roshanak Benabbas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11203, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Guy Carmelli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11203, USA
| | - Richard Sinert
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11203, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
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Kea B, Warton EM, Ballard DW, Mark DG, Reed ME, Rauchwerger AS, Offerman SR, Chettipally UK, Ramos PC, Le DD, Glaser DS, Vinson DR. Predictors of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter Hospitalization across 7 U.S. Emergency Departments: A Prospective Study. J Atr Fibrillation 2021; 13:2355. [PMID: 34950330 PMCID: PMC8691349 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION International rates of hospitalization for atrial fibrillation and flutter (AFF) from the emergency department (ED) vary widely without clear evidence to guide the identification of high-risk patients requiring inpatient management. We sought to determine (1) variation in hospital admission and (2) modifiable factors associated with hospitalization of AFF patients within a U.S. integrated health system. METHODS This multicenter prospective observational study of health plan members with symptomatic AFF was conducted using convenience sampling in 7 urban community EDs from 05/2011 to 08/2012. Prospective data collection included presenting symptoms, characteristics of atrial dysrhythmia, ED physician impression of hemodynamic instability, comorbid diagnoses, ED management, and ED discharge rhythm. All centers had full-time on-call cardiology consultation available. Additional variables were extracted from the electronic health record. We identified factors associated with hospitalization and included predictors in a multivariate Poisson Generalized Estimating Equations regression model to estimate adjusted relative risks while accounting for clustering by physician. RESULTS Among 1,942 eligible AFF patients, 1,074 (55.3%) were discharged home and 868 (44.7%) were hospitalized. Hospitalization rates ranged from 37.4% to 60.4% across medical centers. After adjustment, modifiable factors associated with increased hospital admission from the ED included non-sinus rhythm at ED discharge, no attempted cardioversion, and heart rate reduction. DISCUSSION Within an integrated health system, we found significant variation in AFF hospitalization rates and identified several modifiable factors associated with hospital admission. Standardizing treatment goals that specifically address best practices for ED rate reduction and rhythm control may reduce hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bory Kea
- Center for Policy and Research in Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - E Margaret Warton
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Dustin W Ballard
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, San Rafael, California
| | - Dustin G Mark
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, California
| | - Mary E Reed
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Adina S Rauchwerger
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Steven R Offerman
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Uli K Chettipally
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center, South San Francisco, California
| | - Patricia C Ramos
- Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center, Northwest Permanente Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Daphne D Le
- University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - David S Glaser
- Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth St. Joseph Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - David R Vinson
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
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11
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Tsiachris D, Doundoulakis I, Pagkalidou E, Kordalis A, Deftereos S, Gatzoulis KA, Tsioufis K, Stefanadis C. Pharmacologic Cardioversion in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Network Meta-Analysis. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2021; 35:293-308. [PMID: 33400054 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-020-07127-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We sought to indirectly compare and rank antiarrhythmic agents focusing exclusively on adults with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in order to identify the most effective for pharmacologic cardioversion over different time settings (4 h as primary, and 12, 24 h as secondary outcomes). METHODS We searched several databases from inception to March 2020 without language restrictions, ClinicalTrials.gov, references of reviews, and meeting abstract material. We included randomized controlled trials of patients with AF lasting ≤7 days comparing either two or more intravenous (i.v.) or oral (p.o.) pharmacologic cardioversion agents or an agent against placebo. For each outcome, we performed network meta-analysis based on the frequentist approach. RESULTS Forty-one trials (6013 patients) were included in our systematic review. Moderate confidence evidence suggests that i.v. vernakalant and flecainide have the highest conversion rate within 4 h, possibly allowing discharge from the emergency department and reducing hospital admissions. Intravenous and p.o. formulations of class IC antiarrhythmics (flecainide more so than propafenone) are superior regarding conversion rates within 12 h, while amiodarone efficacy is exhibited in a delayed fashion (within 24 h), especially if ranolazine is added. CONCLUSION Our network meta-analysis identified with sufficient power and consistency the most effective antiarrhythmics for pharmacologic cardioversion over different time settings, with vernakalant and flecainide exhibiting a safer and more efficacious profile toward faster cardioversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Tsiachris
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece.
| | - Ioannis Doundoulakis
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Eirini Pagkalidou
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kordalis
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Deftereos
- Second Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.,Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Christodoulos Stefanadis
- Athens Heart Center, Athens Medical Center, Distomou 5-7, 15125, Athens, Greece.,Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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12
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Cao SS, Dunham SI, Simpson SA. Prescribing Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorders in the ED: A Review of Best Practices, Barriers, and Future Directions. Open Access Emerg Med 2020; 12:261-274. [PMID: 33116962 PMCID: PMC7569244 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s267416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
ED-initiated addiction treatment holds promise for enhancing access to treatment for those with opioid use disorder (OUD). We present a literature review summarizing the evidence for buprenorphine induction in the ED including best practices for dosing, follow-up care, and reducing implementation barriers. A literature search of Pubmed, PsychInfo, and Embase identified articles studying OUD treatment in the ED published after 1980. Twenty-five studies were identified including eleven scientific abstracts. Multiple studies suggest that buprenorphine induction improves engagement in substance treatment up to 30 days after ED treatment. Many different induction protocols were presented, but no particular approach was best supported as criteria for induction and initial dosing vary widely. Similarly, transition of care models focused on either a "hub and spoke" model or "warm hand-offs" model, but no studies compared these approaches. Common barriers to implementing induction programs were provider inexperience, discomfort with addiction treatment, and limited time during the ED visit. No studies described the number of EDs offering induction. While ED buprenorphine induction is safe and enhances adherence to addiction treatment, uncertainty persists in how to best identify patients needing treatment, how to initiate buprenorphine, and how to enhance follow-up after ED-initiated treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott S Cao
- University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Samuel I Dunham
- University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott A Simpson
- University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Psychiatric Emergency Services, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
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13
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Impact of emergency department management of atrial fibrillation with amiodarone on length of stay. A propensity score analysis based on the URGFAICS registry. Eur J Emerg Med 2020; 27:429-435. [PMID: 32282468 DOI: 10.1097/mej.0000000000000696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Amiodarone is a widely used drug in the emergency department (ED) for control of atrial fibrillation, but it has a delayed onset of action and slow metabolism, leading to longer length of ED stay. The aim of this study was to compare the length of ED stay of atrial fibrillation patients who were treated with or without amiodarone. METHODS We undertook a multicenter, observational, cohort study of the URGFAICS registry of older adults with atrial fibrillation who presented to five Spanish EDs and compared patients who had received amiodarone with those who had not. Afterward, we performed a propensity score matched analysis of atrial fibrillation to determine the ED length of stay related to amiodarone. RESULTS Of the 1199 patients included in the registry, 225 patients (18.8%) were treated with amiodarone while 974 (81.2%) were not. We performed a univariate study depending on amiodarone administration followed by propensity score calculation according to the 14 statistically different features found previously and six significant variables, obtaining 150 patients (75 for each group) suitable for the analysis. The length of ED stay was analyzed using box plot, with a P <0.001 in the crude analysis and P = 0.012 after propensity score matching and using survival curves for the analysis of prolonged ED stay, with a log rank <0.001 in the crude analysis and log rank 0.021 after the propensity score-matched analysis. CONCLUSION Amiodarone is associated with longer length of ED stay until discharge independently of the baseline characteristics of the patients.
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14
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deSouza IS, Tadrous M, Sexton T, Benabbas R, Carmelli G, Sinert R. Pharmacologic Cardioversion of Recent-Onset Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Ann Emerg Med 2020; 76:14-30. [PMID: 32173135 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2020.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE We conduct a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis to indirectly compare and rank antidysrhythmic drugs for pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter in the emergency department (ED). METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science from inception to March 2019, limited to human subjects and English language. We also searched for unpublished data. We limited studies to randomized controlled trials that enrolled adult patients with recent-onset atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter and compared antidysrhythmic agents, placebo, or control. We determined these outcomes before data extraction: rate of conversion to sinus rhythm within 4 hours, time to cardioversion, rate of significant adverse events, and rate of thromboembolism within 30 days. We extracted data according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses network meta-analysis and appraised selected trials with the Cochrane review handbook. RESULTS The systematic review initially identified 640 studies; 19 met inclusion criteria. Eighteen trials that randomized 2,069 atrial fibrillation patients provided data for atrial fibrillation conversion rate outcome. Bayesian network meta-analysis using a random-effects model demonstrated that antazoline (odds ratio [OR] 24.9; 95% credible interval [CrI] 7.4 to 107.8), tedisamil (OR 12.0; 95% CrI 4.3 to 43.8), vernakalant (OR 7.5; 95% CrI 3.1 to 18.6), propafenone (OR 6.8; 95% CrI 3.6 to 13.8), flecainide (OR 6.1; 95% CrI 2.9 to 13.2), and ibutilide (OR 4.1; 95% CrI 1.8 to 9.6) were associated with increased likelihood of conversion within 4 hours compared with placebo or control. Overall quality was low, and the network exhibited inconsistency. CONCLUSION For pharmacologic cardioversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation within a 4-hour ED visit, there is insufficient evidence to determine which treatment is superior. Several agents are associated with increased likelihood of conversion within 4 hours compared with placebo or control. Limited data preclude any recommendation for cardioversion of recent-onset atrial flutter. Further high-quality study is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian S deSouza
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY; Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY.
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital in Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Theresa Sexton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY; Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Roshanak Benabbas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY; Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Guy Carmelli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Richard Sinert
- Department of Emergency Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY; Department of Emergency Medicine, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY
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