The Year in Electrophysiology: Selected Highlights from 2019

Area of Science:

• Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia
• Cardiac Electrophysiology

Background:

• The Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia continues its annual series reviewing significant developments.
• This second article specifically addresses electrophysiology topics relevant to cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent advancements in electrophysiology pertinent to cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia.
• To provide an overview of emerging technologies and management strategies in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and recent publications in electrophysiology.
• Focus on specific areas including cardiac sympathetic denervation, atrial fibrillation, cerebral oximetry, leadless pacemakers, subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and pulsed field ablation.

Main Results:

• Key updates on cardiac sympathetic denervation techniques and indications.
• Current strategies for managing patients with atrial fibrillation in the context of cardiothoracic procedures.
• Evaluation of cerebral oximetry's role in catheter ablation.
• Overview of advancements in leadless pacemaker and subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator technology.
• Introduction to pulsed field ablation for pulmonary vein isolation.

Conclusions:

• The field of electrophysiology continues to evolve rapidly, impacting cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia.
• New technologies and techniques offer improved patient management and outcomes.
• Anesthesiologists must stay abreast of these advancements for optimal perioperative care.