Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Atrial fibrillation
Thomas M Munger1, Li-Qun Wu2, Win K Shen3
1Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
Insights
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a growing global health concern, leading to severe complications. Continued research into AF epidemiology, genetics, detection, and treatments is crucial for managing this widespread arrhythmia.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia globally.
- AF prevalence is rapidly increasing worldwide, posing significant health and economic burdens.
- Associated complications include heart failure, dementia, stroke, and syncope.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the escalating global prevalence of atrial fibrillation.
- To underscore the severe consequences associated with AF.
- To emphasize the need for ongoing research in AF management.
Main Methods:
- This abstract reviews current understanding of atrial fibrillation.
- It synthesizes information on AF epidemiology and its impact.
- It discusses existing and needed therapeutic advancements.
Main Results:
- Atrial fibrillation is a common and growing arrhythmia.
- Existing therapies have improved patient outcomes.
- Significant challenges remain in managing AF.
Conclusions:
- Further research into AF epidemiology, genetics, detection, and treatments is essential.
- Aggressive research is needed to address the growing burden of AF.
- Advancements are critical as the global population ages.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia affecting patients today. Disease prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, and is associated with often catastrophic and costly consequences, including heart failure, syncope, dementia, and stroke. Therapies including anticoagulants, anti-arrhythmic medications, devices, and non-pharmacologic procedures in the last 30 years have improved patients' functionality with the disease. Nonetheless, it remains imperative that further research into AF epidemiology, genetics, detection, and treatments continues to push forward rapidly as the worldwide population ages dramatically over the next 20 years.
More Related Videos
08:10Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 20, 2022
09:17High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
Related Concept Videos
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias VI: Management of Dysrhythmias