PFA Safety: Myth or Reality?

Wearables, Digital Biomarkers & the New AF Patient with Dr Rod Passman

As consumer technology becomes increasingly integrated into clinical care, the profile of the atrial fibrillation (AF) patient is evolving. The rise of wearable technology and digital biomarkers is not only changing how arrhythmias are detected but also how they are managed in daily clinical practice. In this month’s episode of Rhythm Interventions Unplugged, host and RIO Course Director Dr Devi Nair (St Bernards Heart & Vascular, US) is joined by leading expert Dr Rod Passman (Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, US) to explore the digital transformation of electrophysiology. Together, they delve into: The impact of wearable devices on the early detection of AF and the management of the "new AF patient." The clinical utility of digital biomarkers in monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy. The challenges and opportunities of integrating patient-generated data into a busy clinical workflow. Expert perspectives on the future of digital health within the global cardiac rhythm management community. Rhythm Interventions Unplugged is your gateway to cutting-edge discussions, curated exclusively for electrophysiologists dedicated to advancing clinical outcomes. In partnership with Rhythm Interventions Online (RIO), this podcast brings together globally recognised thought leaders to debate the hottest topics in the field. Subscribe now on Radcliffe Cardiology to stay up-to-date with the latest insights in arrhythmia management.

Managing Pacemaker Leads in Tricuspid Valve Interventions

In this essential episode of Rhythm Interventions Unplugged, host Dr Devi Nair (St. Bernard's Medical Center, US) sits down with two leading experts in cardiac device management: Dr Larry Epstein and Dr Robert Schaller. Together, they explore a critical challenge facing electrophysiologists today - managing pacemaker and ICD leads in patients requiring tricuspid valve interventions. Dr Epstein and Dr Schaller share practical wisdom on when to extract versus abandon leads, highlighting cases where extraction alone improved TR enough to eliminate the need for valve intervention. Learn why a collaborative "heart team" approach is non-negotiable for these complex patients, bringing together electrophysiologists, structural interventionalists, and surgeons for optimal decision-making. From preventative implantation techniques to alternative pacing strategies like leadless pacemakers, this episode delivers actionable insights for managing the growing population at the crossroads of device therapy and structural heart disease. If you're navigating lead management decisions or working with tricuspid valve patients, tune in for this must-hear conversation.

AI and Machine Learning in Arrhythmia Management

In this insightful episode of Rhythm Interventions Unplugged, host Dr Devi Nair (St. Bernard's Medical Center, US) welcomes two leading experts in the field: Dr Sanjiv Narayan (Stanford Medicine, US) and Dr Tina Baykaner (Stanford Medicine, US). Together, they delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in arrhythmia management. From the crucial first step of screening for arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation (AF), Dr Baykaner shares how AI can analyze standard ECGs to identify individuals at future risk, even before a diagnosis. The discussion then dives into AI's potential in predicting sudden cardiac death and leveraging data from wearable devices for early warning signs. Learn how AI is paving the way for personalized arrhythmia management, from pre-ablation planning to post-ablation follow-up and risk assessment. Can AI-driven models better predict AF recurrence after ablation than traditional scores? Tune in to hear from Drs Narayan and Baykaner about the practical applications of AI in EP, important considerations like data privacy, and where to stay updated on the latest innovations.

The Future of EP Training: Digital, AI & Hands-On Learning

In this episode of Rhythm Interventions Unplugged, host Dr Devi Nair sits down with leading electrophysiologists Dr Nassir Marrouche and Dr Janet Han to explore the future of electrophysiology (EP) training in the digital age. With virtual learning, AI in cardiology, and cutting-edge EP technology transforming education, how are training programs evolving to keep up? From bite-sized digital learning for EP fellows to hands-on experience with the latest electrophysiology devices, our experts discuss the balance between innovation and core clinical skills. They also dive into the role of mentorship in EP training, the importance of human connection in medicine, and how AI-driven personalization could shape the future of EP education. If you're an EP fellow, cardiology trainee, or part of an EP training program, this episode is packed with actionable insights on optimizing electrophysiology education. Tune in!

PFA Safety: Myth or Reality?

Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) offers great promise in atrial fibrillation, however, what are the key safety concerns clinicians must familiarise themselves with when undertaking this procedure? Rhythm Interventions Unplugged host, Dr Devi Nair (St Bernards Heart & Vascular, US) is joined by esteemed guests, Dr Christian Heeger (Asklepios Clinic Altona, DE) and Dr Amin Al-Ahmad (St David's Medical Center, US) to discuss the key debates in PFA safety. Together, they delve into the critical discussions surrounding PFA safety, exploring potential risks such as haemolysis and coronary spasm. Drawing on real-world experiences, they share valuable insights and practical advice for electrophysiologists performing PFA.