Protocol for Home-Based Solution for Remote Atrial Fibrillation Screening to Prevent Recurrence Stroke (HUA-TUO AF...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology and Neurology
• Medical Technology and Digital Health

Background:

• International guidelines recommend ECG monitoring post-ischaemic stroke to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) and prevent recurrence.
• Optimal AF detection strategies and subsequent management for stroke prevention require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the efficacy of long-term, home-based ECG monitoring for AF detection in stroke patients.
• To assess the impact of this strategy on preventing stroke recurrence over a 24-month period.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, randomized, open-label trial with blinded endpoint adjudication.
• Patients with a history of ischaemic stroke stratified by time since event (<1, 1-3, >3 years).
• Intervention group uses a handheld ECG device and smartphone app for daily/symptomatic recording; data analyzed by AI. Control group receives standard care.

Main Results:

• Primary endpoint: Time to first AF detection at 24 months.
• Secondary endpoints: Recurrent stroke/TIA, anticoagulation initiation, heart failure hospitalization, cardiovascular death, all-cause death.

Conclusions:

• The study aims to establish the effectiveness of a novel home-based AF screening system.
• Findings will inform clinical practice regarding AF detection and stroke prevention strategies.