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| AATS/NHLBI: Cardiothoracic Surgery Exploring Collaborative Clinical Research Opportunities |
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Title and Author Atrial Fibrillation – Many Questions Few AnswersA. Marc Gillinov, M.D. Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an epidemic, with more than two million American affected today and a projected prevalence of five million by 2040. With the arrhythmia increasingly common in the general population, it is no surprise that cardiac surgeons encounter large numbers of patients with AF. Although surgeons treat thousands of patients for the arrhythmia, the treatments are not evidence-based. In fact, with the application of new technologies and development of a wide variety of ablation procedures, clinical practice has moved far beyond the science. In order to optimize the surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation, we must develop the knowledge base to answer several important questions. These include: Does treating AF improve outcomes in surgical patients? What is the role of managing the left atrial appendage in stroke prevention? What should we do about AF after cardiac surgery? It is remarkable, but true, that we cannot yet answer these questions. Opinions abound. But answers remain elusive. Of these questions, the most important is, "Does treating AF improve outcomes in surgical patients?" Although the surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation has been a component of clinical practice for more than twenty years, this question remains unanswered. A clinical trial designed to answer this question is imperative. Key Research Gap Requiring NHLBI Leadership Does surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation improve outcomes? Key Citations 1: Gillinov, AM. Choice of Surgical Lesion Set: Answers From the Data Ann. Thorac. Surg.2007; 84: 1786 - 1792. |
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Copyright © 2012 American Association for Thoracic Surgery
All rights reserved. IMPORTANT REMINDER: The preceding information is intended only to provide
general guidance and not as a definitive basis for diagnosis or treatment in any particular case.
It is very important that you consult a doctor about any specific medical problem or question.
All rights reserved. IMPORTANT REMINDER: The preceding information is intended only to provide
general guidance and not as a definitive basis for diagnosis or treatment in any particular case.
It is very important that you consult a doctor about any specific medical problem or question.