The therapeutic goal of the initial management strategy for AF is to treat any underlying cardiovascular conditions and reduce the risk of stroke.1

Heart with AF

THE PRESENCE OF CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS often exacerbates AF1

Brain with danger of stroke

AF IS ASSOCIATED WITH AN INCREASED RISK OF STROKE compared to patients in sinus rhythm2

The management of cardiovascular risk factors and stroke risk across the AF care pathway, includes:

MANAGE PRECIPITATING FACTORS

Decrease in alcohol and tobacco

Treatment

Lifestyle changes
(e.g. increased activity, smoking cessation, reduced alcohol intake)

Heart with AF

Treatment

Treatment of underlying cardiovascular conditions

Lower AF for heart

Desired Outcome

Cardiovascular RISK REDUCTION

Patient benefit

Patient Benefit

Improved life expectancy

Improved quality of life, autonomy, social functioning

ASSESS STROKE RISK

Anticoagulation

Treatment

Oral anticoagulation in patients at risk of stroke

Prevention of stroke in brain

Desired Outcome

Stroke PREVENTION

Patient benefit

Patient Benefit

Improved life expectancy

Improved quality of life, autonomy, social functioning

Treatment Options for AF management

The initial management strategy for patients with AF includes detection and management of key complications and cardiovascular risk factors, including stroke and heart failure. Early treatment is important as it may improve patient life expectancy and quality of life.1,3 Treatment options for controlling AF long-term include stroke aversion therapy, rate control therapy and rhythm control strategies. Should you wish to read more on the Treatment options of Atrial Fibrillation, download the full report, the executive summary and the infographic on Atrial Fibrillation Management that have been published by Biosense Webster.