title: Long-term monitoring for patients after surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation: are all devices the same?
abstract: In recent years, the nonmedical management of atrial fibrillation (AF) has rapidly evolved, with more options available to address the arrhythmia. Determining the successful return of sinus rhythm and the medical management after ablation requires the selection of the correct diagnostic method. In May 2007, the Heart Rhythm Society in conjunction with the Society for Thoracic Surgeons, the European Heart Rhythm Association, and the European Cardiac Arrhythmia Society identified the need for programs to adopt a consistent method of follow-up and monitoring. Choosing the right monitor for the determination of the success, postsurgical ablation that meets the Heart Rhythm Society guidelines for monitoring especially for asymptomatic patients is imperative. Therefore, we reviewed the current devices available to assist practitioners in determining which monitor best meets their needs The criteria selected to perform the review include (1) ease of use for patients (compliance), (2) ability of the monitor to perform internal analysis, (3) the monitor has >24 hours of storage capability, and (4) external support. Our selection criteria revealed six cardiac rhythm monitors currently available for use. This review compared the different arrhythmia monitors from an established monitoring program perspective to assist practitioners in choosing a monitor that meets their practice needs for determining the return to sinus rhythm postsurgical ablation.
authors.affiliation: Cardiac Surgery Research, Inova Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, VA 22042, USA.
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Henry
authors.forename: Niv
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Ad