Rhythm Control for Recent Onset Atrial Fibrillation - Time to Think About This?-Rhythm Control for Recent Onset Atrial Fibrillation

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Video Summary

The session titled "Rhythm Control for Recent Onset Atrial Fibrillation, Time to Think About This," co-hosted by the World Society of Arrhythmia, focused on strategies for managing patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF). Dr. Ali Otto and Dr. Tristram Bonson chaired the session, introducing key speakers who presented on topics ranging from the definition of recent onset AF to the benefits of early rhythm control.<br /><br />Dr. Ben Steinberg initiated discussions by challenging the chronology-based definitions of "recent onset" AF, suggesting a need for more nuanced terms like "early stage disease." He emphasized the role of atrial structure and electrical pathology in determining disease progression, rather than simply time since diagnosis. Various approaches, including macro remodeling, conduction properties, and phenotyping, were explored to better identify early-stage AF and refine treatment strategies.<br /><br />Dr. Bülent Görenek analyzed the EAST-AFNet trial, discussing its findings on early rhythm control interventions reducing cardiovascular events compared to usual care. Despite some safety issues associated with rhythm control, he highlighted its potential benefits in specific patient groups, including those with comorbidities and heart failure.<br /><br />Dr. Werner Jung examined the influence of age on rhythm control outcomes, concluding that early rhythm control is beneficial, particularly in patients under 75. However, even older patients may see cardiovascular benefits.<br /><br />Lastly, Dr. Oluseye Fasae contrasted catheter ablation and antiarrhythmic drug therapy as first-line treatments for AF. He argued that ablation is often superior, offering improved maintenance of sinus rhythm and fewer long-term side effects, supported by guidelines from both the American and European heart associations.<br /><br />The session closed with a panel discussion addressing clinical decision-making, potential uses of AI in arrhythmia treatment, and the importance of personalized care strategies based on patient-specific factors.

Keywords

Atrial Fibrillation

Rhythm Control

Early Stage Disease

EAST-AFNet Trial

Catheter Ablation

Antiarrhythmic Drugs

Cardiovascular Events

Personalized Care

AI in Arrhythmia

Heart Failure