Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 4, 2025

High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
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High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: July 29, 2011

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[Atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia and a syndrome]

Ramón Corbalán1

  • 1División Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.

Revista Medica De Chile
|January 31, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder, especially in older adults, increasing stroke risk. Recent guidelines and new anticoagulant drugs offer improved safety and effectiveness for AF management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Geriatrics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, particularly prevalent in the elderly.
  • AF significantly elevates the risk of ischemic stroke, heart failure, and mortality.
  • Current diagnosis and treatment strategies for AF are under continuous evaluation and refinement.

Approach:

  • This review examines recent European guidelines for Atrial Fibrillation management.
  • It highlights advancements in treatment over the past decade, focusing on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).
  • The analysis includes managing common comorbidities associated with AF.

Key Points:

  • Direct oral anticoagulants demonstrate superior efficacy and safety compared to traditional vitamin K antagonists for AF treatment.
  • Effective management of comorbidities like advanced age, heart failure, diabetes, and renal failure is crucial in AF patients.
  • Emerging novel therapies for Atrial Fibrillation are anticipated in the near future.

Conclusions:

  • Recent European guidelines and the advent of DOACs have significantly improved Atrial Fibrillation care.
  • Comprehensive management addressing both AF and its comorbidities is essential for better patient outcomes.
  • The evolving landscape of AF treatment promises further therapeutic advancements.

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