Arrhythmias & electrophysiology
Management of device-detected subclinical atrial fibrillation: a European Heart Rhythm Association survey
Authors' conclusion
AF screening is not routinely performed, either in primary or secondary prevention of stroke. Device-detected AF is not uncommon and generally managed based on thromboembolic risk and duration of episodes; the cut-offs of AF duration, global burden, and number of episodes are yet to be determined in terms of role and clinical value. Clinicians' approaches to subclinical AF remain heterogeneous.
Study context
- Population
- Physicians managing device-detected subclinical AF (DDAF), 46 countries
- Participants
- 222 physicians · 46 countries
- Outcome
- Physicians' management of DDAF
Methodological detailsphysician-based survey, 24 multiple-choice questions
- Physician-based survey
- 24 multiple-choice questions
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Respondents reporting DDAF in >10% of cardiac electronic devices (CIED) follow-up
37%
Initiate OAC with AF >24 h
34%
Initiate OAC with AF >6 h
26%
Initiate OAC with AF >5-6 min
15%
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
Systematic long-term AF screening with ILR after cryptogenic stroke (% of ILRs implanted for that purpose)
Regional differences in diagnostic exams and therapy
- Non-European and Mediterranean European respondents more likely than North European respondents to prescribe diagnostic exams and therapy
Consumer-based devices for AF screening
- Majority recommend use mainly in specific situations (undiagnosed palpitations, ischaemic stroke, AF burden monitoring), not routinely by CHA2DS2-VA or age
Original publication
Summarised from the published abstract; every number is checked against it