The Brain-Atrial Fibrillation-Recent Rehabilitation Axis: A Modern Approach.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia linked to increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and mortality.
• AF-related strokes are often more severe and have worse outcomes, necessitating improved management strategies.
• Rising AF prevalence due to aging populations underscores the need for optimized stroke prevention and post-stroke care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on atrial fibrillation in the context of ischemic stroke.
• To emphasize anticoagulation, acute stroke management, and early neurorehabilitation strategies.
• To highlight challenges and interdisciplinary care models for AF-associated stroke.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes existing research on AF and ischemic stroke.
• It focuses on anticoagulation efficacy, acute stroke interventions, and rehabilitation.
• It discusses unique challenges and interdisciplinary care models like the Hemodynamic Gating Matrix and Heart-Brain Team.

Main Results:

• AF-related strokes present unique challenges including hemodynamic instability and high embolic/bleeding risks.
• Individualized rehabilitation strategies are essential for functional recovery.
• Interdisciplinary care models are proposed to integrate cardiovascular and neurological management.

Conclusions:

• Coordinated care across cardiology, neurology, and rehabilitation is vital for AF-related stroke.
• A physiology-guided, interdisciplinary approach can enhance functional recovery and cardiovascular safety.
• Optimizing management of AF-associated stroke is critical for this high-risk population.