NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND SYMPOSIUM GOAL

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in this country. The prevalence increases in the elderly population. Atrial fibrillation is associated with congestive heart failure, thromboembolism and in some patient groups, an increased mortality.

The purpose of this symposium is to review up-to-date management of atrial fibrillation.  Presentations will include new strategies to treat atrial fibrillation by reviewing the recent progress in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of this disease as well as to address key issues in patient management.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

- Identify which patients with AF require anticoagulant medications vs. aspirin and/or other drug therapies.

- Assess safety and efficacy data from key clinical trials comparing rate vs. rhythm-control strategies using conventional agents for the management of AF.

- List differing pharmacological strategies for managing atrial fibirillation including use of drugs and/or pacemakers to control the ventricular response during AF vs. use of drugs to convert and/or maintain normal sinus rhythm (NSR).

- Describe therapeutic approaches to the management of AF as established by the recent ACC/AHA/HRS 2006 guidelines.

- Discuss the current and emerging role of catheter ablation to treat and cure patients with AF including short and long-germ outcomes to such treatment.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of cardiologists, primary care physicians, internists, family practitioners and other healthcare providers interested in acquiring additional knowledge concerning atrial fibrillation.

ACCREDITATION AND CREDITS

EXCEL Continuing Education is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

EXCEL Continuing Education designates this educational activity for a maximum of three AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.  Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.