Integrating new approaches to atrial fibrillation management: the 6th AFNET/EHRA Consensus Conference

Abstract

There are major challenges ahead for clinicians treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The population with AF is expected to expand considerably and yet, apart from anticoagulation, therapies used in AF have not been shown to consistently impact on mortality or reduce adverse cardiovascular events. New approaches to AF management, including the use of novel technologies and structured, integrated care, have the potential to enhance clinical phenotyping or result in better treatment selection and stratified therapy. Here, we report the outcomes of the 6th Consensus Conference of the Atrial Fibrillation Network (AFNET) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), held at the European Society of Cardiology Heart House in Sophia Antipolis, France, 17-19 January 2017. Sixty-two global specialists in AF and 13 industry partners met to develop innovative solutions based on new approaches to screening and diagnosis, enhancing integration of AF care, developing clinical pathways for treating complex patients, improving stroke prevention strategies, and better patient selection for heart rate and rhythm control. Ultimately, these approaches can lead to better outcomes for patients with AF.

Application of the simple atrial fibrillation better care pathway for integrated care management in frail patients with atrial fibrillation: A nationwide cohort study

“…Although the risk of thromboembolic events is high, the rate of adequate oral anticoagulation is lower in frail patients with AF compared to nonfrail patients. [8][9][10] However, specific suggestions…”

“…Therefore, a more integrated and holistic approach beyond anticoagulation therapy for patients with AF has been advocated in guidelines to reduce mortality and adverse outcomes in AF. [10][11][12] One way is to streamline management approaches that would be applicable across the entire AF patient pathway, starting with primary care and linking with secondary care (even for cardiologists and noncardiologists), and be understandable for patients with AF. The ABC (atrial fibrillation better care) pathway has been proposed as a simple, integrated approach.…”

Same‐day discharge in selected patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation

“…Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and is becoming ever more frequent, [1][2][3][4] dictating a clear need for improved, cost-effective strategies to tackle this emerging epidemic. [5][6][7][8][9] Catheter ablation for AF is a widespread treatment option, with an expanding role in current guidelines and consensus documents. [10][11][12][13][14] Given its significant impact on healthcare resource utilization, there is a need to be able to offer this treatment safely and cost-effectively.…”

Preparation for and Implementation of Shared Medical Appointments to Improve Self-Management, Knowledge, and Care Quality Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

“…Therefore, the team evaluated existing educational content used in the clinic and reviewed current evidence and clinical guidelines for managing AF and symptoms associated with the cardiac ablation procedure. 2 , 7 , 28 , 29 On the basis of this review, they determined broad categories for the content of a preprocedure and 3-month postprocedure SMA and then the specific content within each category for the curriculum. The curriculum content was based on published recommendations, 12 recommendations from the Heart Rhythm practice chair, and then reviewed by an advisory board comprised of cardiac patients.…”