Atrial Fibrillation: A Major Healthcare Challenge
AF is one of the most important public health issues and a leading cause of increasing health care expenditure in Western Europe. AF costs the US economy >$6.65 billion per year with 75% of the cost resulting from hospitalisations. With the aging population this number is expected to double by 2023.
Figures from USA
1% of the population suffer from AF
10% of patients are over 70 years of age
2 to 3 million Americans have AF
50% of symptoms are unresponsive to drug treatment
AF is the leading cause of increasing health care expenditure
Types of AF
AF usually originates from the left atrium (LA) which has a complex structure and shape, including four veins that drain blood from the lungs into the heart.
Paroxysmal AF: recurrent AF (≥2 episodes), terminates spontaneously within 7 days
Persistent AF: AF sustains >7 days, or needs pharmacologic or electrical cardioversion
Permanent AF: AF not corrected by treatments other than medication
Paroxysmal AF can be prevented by electrical isolation of the four pulmonary veins.
STAR Mapping™
STAR Mapping™ employs AI technology and is designed to assist physicians in the management of patients with cardiac arrhythmias.