Comment
Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Of participants with monitoring up to 30 months.9 Recent validation of new digital technologies for detecting AFib has enabled noninvasive, cost-effective AFib screening in vulnerable populations. One study evaluating a handheld smartwatch accessory that records a rhythm strip equivalent to lead I for 30 seconds and uses an automated algorithm for AFib diagnosis, supported by physician review, accurately detected AFib.10In the mSToPS study of 2,659 high-risk individuals, immediate monitoring with a home-based wearable ECG sensor patch, compared with delayed monitoring, resulted in a higher rate of AFib diagnosis (3.9 vs. 0.9 percent) after four months.9 Monitored participants, compared with nonmonitored controls had higher rates of AFib diagnosis and greater initiation of anticoagulants for stroke prevention, although health care resource utilization was increased at one year. According to an editorial comment, “The mSToPs data suggest that immediate, continuous screening for two weeks may be equivalent to weekly or biweekly, 30-second rhythm monitoring over a 12-month period in a population of similar risk.”11 Further studies are needed to determine whether earlier or more sensitive AFib detection improves clinical outcomes and whether it is cost-effective. According to the authors, there is good evidence that earlier AFib detection could affect clinical outcomes with regard to aggressive management of modifiable risk factors, rate control, symptom control and stroke prevention.11 Rate and Rhythm ControlLong-term ventricular rate control is used to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, minimize development of HF and prevent thromboembolic complications.3 Rate control drugs include beta blockers, nondihydropyridine calcium antagonists, digoxin and amiodarone, alone or in combination. The choice of drug depends on patient age, lifestyle, associated comorbidities and heart rate. If pharmacotherapy is not effective, atrioventricular node ablation with pacemaker implantation or rhythm control may be used.3 Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) are the most common treatment for restoring and maintaining sinus rhythm. AADs
Add Comment