Recent studies conducted within the framework of the CASTLE-HTx project have shown that ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) can significantly improve the condition of patients with late-stage heart failure. Ablation is a technique that removes areas of heart tissue that cause an irregular heart rhythm, helping the heart work better.
What is atrial fibrillation and ablation?
Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly and often faster than normal. This can increase the workload on the heart and increase the risk of complications, especially for patients with heart failure. Ablation, or "removal" of these problematic areas of tissue, helps restore a stable heart rhythm.
What did the CASTLE-HTx study show?
Patients who had already installed a heart implant for continuous rhythm monitoring participated in the study. The results of two groups were compared: those who underwent ablation and those who received only medication. As a result, it was found that patients after ablation had a lower risk of death and the need for a heart transplant than those who received only medical therapy. The frequency of the need for other major procedures, such as the installation of an artificial heart pump (LVAD), has also decreased.
Why is this important?
This study shows that ablation can be an important procedure for those with serious heart problems and offers a chance to improve quality of life and increase life expectancy. The ability to avoid a heart transplant or the use of an implant to support the heart makes ablation an effective option for patients with severe forms of heart failure.
How does AFIB technology help detect atrial fibrillation?
Technology AFIB (Atrial Fibrillation Detection) from microlife is an innovative tool that allows detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) during blood pressure measurement. It works by analyzing the pulse waves recorded during the measurement and detecting the irregular intervals between heartbeats that are characteristic of AF. Due to its high sensitivity and accuracy, AFIB allows detection of arrhythmia even in the early stages, when symptoms have not yet appeared.