The Year in Electrophysiology: Selected Highlights From 2023

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Electrophysiology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• This article continues an annual series in the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia.
• It focuses on recent developments in cardiac electrophysiology pertinent to anesthesiologists.
• The scope covers key advancements and consensus statements from 2023.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize critical 2023 developments in cardiac electrophysiology.
• To highlight topics of particular interest to cardiac anesthesiologists.
• To provide an overview of new technologies and strategies in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature and consensus statements in electrophysiology.
• Selection of key topics relevant to anesthesiology practice.
• Synthesis of information on new devices, techniques, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Updates include consensus on left atrial appendage closure and outcomes post-atrial fibrillation ablation.
• Significant progress in pulse field ablation and strategies for refractory ventricular fibrillation.
• New developments in conduction system pacing, leadless pacemakers (Aurora EV, AVEIR), and AI in ECG diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• Anesthetic techniques significantly impact outcomes in electrophysiology procedures.
• Cardiac anesthesiologists must stay abreast of rapid advancements in electrophysiology.
• The integration of new technologies and AI presents evolving challenges and opportunities.