{"title":"[Antiarrhythmic drugs will no longer be of importance in the treatment of atrial fibrillation in the future : Pros and cons].","authors":"Andreas Metzner, Constanze Schmidt","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01047-5","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01047-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>An early rhythm stabilization is the primary focus of the current treatment of atrial fibrillation. Based on current studies catheter ablation of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established component in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Therefore, in the management of affected patients this procedure should be offered at an early stage in addition to the holistic treatment approach with consistent treatment of cardiovascular risk factors and thromboembolism prophylaxis with anticoagulants. Substances with an antiarrhythmic effect can be included in a supportive role in the management of atrial fibrillation. Pharmacotherapy could also perspectively play an important role in the treatment of the underlying atrial cardiomyopathy of the phenotype of atrial fibrillation. An understanding of the atrial pathophysiology of individual patients with adapted selection of suitable treatment strategies of ablation up to pharmacotherapy is decisive for the successful antiarrhythmic outcome. The decision on the treatment strategy must always be individually made together with the affected patient. The advantages and disadvantages of both options must be explained in detail and pre-existing comorbidities and risk factors must be included. Additionally, the individual wishes of the patient must be taken into account.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"274-281"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142632432","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Burghard Schumacher, Suzanne de Waha, Roland R Tilz
{"title":"[My patients can go home in the evening after pulmonary vein isolation : Pros and cons].","authors":"Burghard Schumacher, Suzanne de Waha, Roland R Tilz","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01050-w","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01050-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Given the background of optimizing financial and personnel resources while aligning with patient needs, the concept of same-day discharge following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) appears attractive. However, a non-selective approach to different strategies is inappropriate, as is often the case in medicine. A \"one size fits all\" approach is therefore not advisable for outpatient PVI. Instead, the primary focus should be on identifying which patients can safely and effectively undergo PVI in an outpatient setting and which patients would benefit from inpatient care. Both procedural and patient-specific criteria should be considered in this context. In addition, structural prerequisites must also be met. Ultimately, the decision as to whether outpatient PVI is feasible should remain with the treating physician and the patient.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"296-302"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142632434","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"[Conducted energy weapons (CEW)].","authors":"Jana Ackmann, Daniel Steven","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01049-3","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01049-3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Conducted energy weapons (CEW, TASER) are increasingly used by law enforcement agencies in Germany. The CEWs are intended to reduce violence against police officers and to reduce moderate to severe injuries of police officers and aggressors. The delivery of repetitive electrical impulses causes neuromuscular paralysis and incapacitation; however, there are safety concerns due to deaths related to CEWs.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the medical risks associated with the use of CEWs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A literature search was carried out using relevant databases.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The CEWs offer a good overall safety profile but in rare cases can have serious or life-threatening health risks. These include injuries to vulnerable body regions and falls. Myocardial capture and malignant arrhythmia can be triggered in animal experiments. The cause of death following the use of a conducted energy device (CED) can often not be clearly attributed due to competing causes; however, in studies with volunteers arrhythmia has not been observed so far. Overall, the risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia in humans appears to be low, although still present. Particularly vulnerable risk groups include children, people with a history of mental illness or with intoxication, pregnant women and cardiac device wearers.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Even though in principle CEWs can trigger malignant arrhythmia, the risk is low and the causality of death after CEW deployment often remains unclear. In the medical care of patients after CEW use, comorbidities such as intoxication or mental illness must be considered.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"312-317"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11604799/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142632433","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"[The 2024 ESC guidelines for management of atrial fibrillation : AF-CARE as new credo].","authors":"Julian Wolfes, Lars Eckardt","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01053-7","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01053-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The new 2024 ESC guidelines on the management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) introduces the AF-CARE pathway as the central acronym for AF management. As a result, the management of Comorbidities and risk factors is moving to the forefront of AF management. However, the new guideline also includes important changes in Avoidance stroke and thromboembolism, such as a modified risk score (CHA<sub>2</sub>DS<sub>2</sub>-VA) and a statement on anticoagulation in subclinical atrial fibrillation. There are also changes in the concepts of Rhythm and rate control with an upgrading of rhythm control and catheter ablation. Finally, the guideline recommends regular Evaluation and reassessment of the patient's course for optimal AF management. Here, we summarize key points of the new guidelines and discusses some recommendations on aspects that can also be assessed differently.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"318-323"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11604822/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142632435","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"[Left bundle branch pacing is superior to classic cardiac resynchronisation therapy : Pros and cons].","authors":"Sergio Richter, Bernd Lemke","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01054-6","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01054-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is an effective method for increasing quality of life and life expectancy for many patients with heart failure. Due to the good results, this procedure is used frequently in Germany and has established itself as a class I indication in heart failure therapy. In addition to His bundle pacing, left bundle branch pacing has now also made a name for itself, as it shows a good success rate and can be used in a wider range of patients. Now the question arises as to whether left bundle branch pacing is superior to classic biventricular pacing and what the evidence situation is in this respect. This question shall be discussed in this article considering current studies and guideline recommendations.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"256-262"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142669599","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"[Epicardial ablation of ventricular tachycardia with cardiac surgery only : Pro/Contra].","authors":"Christian Sohns, Boris Schmidt","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01038-6","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01038-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>During the ablation of ventricular arrhythmias (VA) complications can occur, albeit rather rarely, and their occurrence depends on various factors. On the one hand the patient's condition and comorbidities play a role, on the other hand the access site and the procedure itself can lead to complications which have to be addressed adequately. This article will discuss whether complex ablations with epicardial access should only be performed at centres with the appropriate expertise and a cardiac surgery department.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"286-289"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142114668","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Katharina Franke, Monika Lüdemann, Maria B Gonzalez Y Gonzalez
{"title":"[Cardiac arrhythmias in adults with congenital heart disease].","authors":"Katharina Franke, Monika Lüdemann, Maria B Gonzalez Y Gonzalez","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01037-7","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01037-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>In patients with congenital heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias are complex and require a thorough understanding of the anatomy, past surgical and interventional procedures, and the specific electric processes. Supraventricular tachycardias commonly present as emergency situations and should be treated immediately, particularly when there is an underlying complex malformation. Establishing sinus rhythm is usually superior to pure frequency control for hemodynamic reasons. Catheter ablation should be preferred over medical treatment, even though several procedures are often necessary. In addition, bradycardia is seen more frequently in congenital heart defects; this could be aggravated by antiarrhythmic drugs. There are significant differences between the indications and techniques used for pacemaker implantation in patients with congenital heart defects and those without. Patients with complex congenital heart diseases have an increased risk of thromboembolism; therefore, an individual and early indication for low-threshold oral anticoagulation is necessary; direct oral anticoagulants can also be used for this purpose. In risk stratification for sudden cardiac death, the principles of general guidelines are often not applicable, and individualized decisions are required. Recently, a new general risk score for congenital heart disease has been developed. The treatment of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with congenital heart disease should always be performed in close cooperation with specialized centers.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"327-333"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142121150","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"[Holter monitoring].","authors":"Carsten W Israel, Sona Tribunyan","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01036-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01036-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Holter monitoring represents a valuable diagnostic tool to document intermittent arrhythmias in the work-up of, for example, syncope, presyncope, collapse, falls, dizziness, stroke, palpitations, and a rapid heartbeat. In addition, it may help in the diagnosis of intermittent ischemia and channelopathies, particularly in the form of 12-lead Holter monitoring. Continuous ECG registration typically lasts from 24-48 h. The use of Holter monitoring is limited in patients with rare symptoms (< 1 × per month) and in recordings full of artifacts. The interpretation of a Holter recording combines an automatic analysis with a manual reassessment. The clinical relevance of many arrhythmias can only be considered together with symptoms and activity of the patient at the time of the event. Therefore, a patient diary accompanying the ECG recording is crucial. Systematic assessment of the ECG recording and knowledge about a number of pitfalls in Holter monitoring can optimize the interpretation of the recording.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"234-249"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142001309","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Ventricular arrhythmias in the context of chronic kidney disease and electrolyte imbalance.","authors":"Ines Masmoudi, Zouhir Dindane, Sergio Richter, Micaela Ebert","doi":"10.1007/s00399-024-01029-7","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00399-024-01029-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Patients with chronic kidney disease face a high risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly in more advanced stages of renal dysfunction. Ventricular arrhythmias are prevalent and contribute to the heightened cardiovascular mortality. This review aims to explore the intricate interplay of disease-specific risk factors, arrhythmic triggers, and electrolyte disorders that amplify susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in this population and influence the efficacy of available treatments.</p>","PeriodicalId":52403,"journal":{"name":"Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie","volume":" ","pages":"211-218"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141617588","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}