[Registry and studies of the German Competence Network on Atrial Fibrillation (AFNET)]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Clinical Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia.
• The German Competence Network on Atrial Fibrillation (AFNET) was established to improve AF treatment.
• AF often occurs with co-morbidities like hypertension and diabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To improve the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF).
• To analyze patient data for better understanding of AF course and complications.
• To evaluate novel therapeutic strategies for AF management.

Main Methods:

• Established a nationwide patient registry for atrial fibrillation (AF).
• Collected data on diagnostics, therapy, co-morbidities, and complications.
• Conducted registry projects for interventional and surgical AF therapies.

Main Results:

• Identified frequent co-morbidities in AF patients, including hypertension, valvular heart disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and advanced age.
• Confirmed that most AF patients receive oral anticoagulation according to guidelines.
• Initiated research into antiarrhythmic therapy duration and prevention of atrial fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• Data from the AFNET registry inform the development of improved standards of care for atrial fibrillation.
• Further research is ongoing for optimal antiarrhythmic therapy and prevention of AF recurrence.
• Registry projects provide insights into the success and complications of interventional and surgical AF treatments.