ACP Internist1 in 3 Adults with New-onset Afib During Hospitalization have Recurrence Within a Year

New study reveals a high recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation in patients who experienced their first episode during hospitalization for noncardiac surgery or medical illness.

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine has shed light on the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients who experienced their first episode during hospitalization. The findings suggest a need for careful monitoring and follow-up in these patients.

HCN Medical Memo
This study underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and follow-up care for patients who experience their first AF episode during hospitalization. Healthcare professionals can use this information to better manage these patients, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.

Key Points

• The study was conducted in three academic hospitals in Ontario, Canada, involving 139 patients who had transient new-onset AF during hospitalization for noncardiac surgery or medical illness.
• Patients were monitored by EKG for 14 days at one and six months and underwent telephone assessment at one, six, and 12 months.
• At one year, recurrent AF had been detected in 33.1% of participants in the transient new-onset AF group, a rate approximately seven times higher than in matched control participants.
• The study authors emphasized the need for risk stratification and follow-up in these patients.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of heart arrhythmia, affecting an estimated 2.7–6.1 million people in the United States.

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