Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder, places a significant burden on patients and healthcare systems.  The condition -- which impacts 33 million people worldwide and is estimated to rise by almost 70% by 2030  -- is challenging the medical community to deliver care in more effective and efficient ways.   

To support the opportunity to learn about advances in research and therapeutics directly from world leaders in electrophysiology (EP), the Johnson & Johnson Institute and Biosense Webster supported the 19th Atrial Fibrillation Symposium.  Held in Madrid, the event was attended by more than 730 physicians from 54 countries who came together to share the newest developments and perspectives in AFib treatment. “New technologies and techniques have revolutionized AFib treatment,” said Meret Labhart, Senior Director EMEA Education Solution, Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions, Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices.

“Through our collaboration with global thought leaders, the Johnson & Johnson Institute is delivering innovative education and training to bring the benefits of these treatments to more patients and increase the efficiency of how care is delivered.”

Combining Practical and Scientific Learning

The three-day symposium included both practical and scientific sessions.  The first day was devoted to the Practical Sessions, which focused on all aspects of cardiac ablation procedures and the use of new technologies.  The expert faculty shared tips and tricks for improving procedure workflow and efficiency, and ultimately, enhancing patient care. These hands-on demonstration sessions are designed to strengthen procedural confidence among younger, up, and coming EPs.  

The more scientific and research-oriented portion of the program happened over the second and third days.  The international faculty presented the latest research and developments in the field and engaged attendees in scientific debates.  These sessions were targeted at clinicians seeking the most progressive information in the area to advance their knowledge and practice.  

“While dissemination of knowledge continues to expand in the virtual world, the AFib Symposium provides a rich, interactive opportunity to meet, hear and discuss with colleagues from around the globe the latest advances in the science and practical care of patients with AF,” said Prof Mark O’Neil, AFib Symposium Scientific Committee Member, Professional of Cardiac Electrophysiology, King’s College, London.

The Symposium also included a “Diversity & Inclusion in EP” luncheon focused on women's career development.  Attendees had the opportunity to hear about the experiences and learnings of three panelists: Isabel Deisenhofer, MD, German Heart Center, Munich; Sabine Ernst, MD, Royal Brompton, and Harefield Hospital, London; and Alenka Brzulja, Vice President, Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions EMEA, Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices. 

Advancing Care Through Collaboration

AFib is fast becoming the ‘new millennium epidemic’ and one of the world’s most significant health issues. The condition disrupts the quality of life of millions of people worldwide and puts a burden on caregivers and healthcare systems. The urgency to get the right treatment to the right patient at the right moment has never been greater.

“At Biosense Webster, we are passionate about helping patients get access to early detection, diagnosis, and the right treatments for AFib, and have been for over 20 years,” said Alenka Brzulja, Vice President, Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions EMEA, Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices. “Through collaboration with the electrophysiology community, we can help to keep the focus on AFib and protect more patients from the life-threatening complications of the condition.” 

19th AFib Symposium Faculty
Practical Sessions – Scientific Committee:

• Prof. Sabine Ernst (United Kingdom), Dr. Elena Arbelo (Spain), Prof. Roberto De Ponti (Italy)

Scientific Sessions – Scientific Committee:

• Prof. Mark O’Neill (United Kingdom), Prof. Dipen Shah (Switzerland), Prof. Mattias Duytschaever (Belgium)

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