More than 10 million Americans are affected by atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition that disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart and significantly increases the risk of stroke and death. AFib causes the upper chambers of the heart to contract irregularly, which can lead to blood clots and other complications.
Laurence M. Epstein, MD, system director of electrophysiology at Northwell Health, noted a shift in how experts approach treatment for AFib. “Our understanding of how to treat atrial fibrillation has changed dramatically over recent years,” Dr. Epstein said. “It’s important for everyone to know that getting treatment early and using the right treatment approaches saves lives.”
Recent guidelines from major organizations such as the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and European Society of Cardiology now recommend that patients receive prompt treatment to restore a normal heart rhythm. These guidelines highlight treatments shown by studies to be most effective for patients with AFib.
Stuart Beldner, MD, an electrophysiologist at Northwell Health, explained that two main strategies have been used historically: controlling heart rate or controlling heart rhythm. While both methods include anticoagulation therapy to reduce stroke risk, new evidence suggests one is superior. “Trials have shown that maintaining a normal heart rhythm, specifically through catheter ablation, is better than controlling heart rate.” He added that focusing on restoring normal rhythm can reduce stroke risk by 23% and lower cardiovascular death by 32%.
Catheter ablation involves inserting a catheter into the heart via a blood vessel and destroying cells responsible for abnormal rhythms using heat, cold, or electrical pulses.
Northwell Health has played a leading role in developing treatments for abnormal heart rhythms. The health system’s Central Region facilities — including North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Centers — are ensuring patients benefit from updated treatment protocols.
According to Dr. Epstein: “It’s an intensive, multidisciplinary approach. When someone is identified as having AFib, we want to bring to bear not just our cool technologies for ablation but also our team of specialists. Sleep medicine clinicians can evaluate them for sleep apnea. Our clinicians who specialize in prevention can help with nutrition, weight loss and management of diabetes and hypertension. We all work together to treat AFib quickly and effectively, giving our patients the best possible chance at renewed cardiovascular health.”
Dr Epstein concluded: “For years, Northwell experts have helped develop new treatments for AFib. Now, we’re making sure that those advances reach everyone who needs care.”
