Prof Usama Boles
Consultant, Electrophysiologist and Cardiologist, UPMC Ireland
As the burden of cardiovascular-related arrhythmias increases, new cardiac services in the South East alongside improved management techniques come at the right time to improve patient outcomes.
The burden of cardiovascular-related arrhythmias in the community is increasing. Factors such as poor diet, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity contribute to an increased risk of developing arrhythmias, alongside genetics, cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure.
Arrhythmia affecting more people
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, affecting around 59 million individuals, and is the leading cardiac cause of stroke. Prof Usama Boles, Consultant Electrophysiologist and Cardiologist, discusses the extent of the issue: “We are seeing younger and younger people present with arrhythmias, individuals leading high-stress lives, whether in their jobs, studies or personal circumstances — or athletes who regularly engage in intense physical training.”
Critical early detection
With a range of symptoms including palpitations, shortness of breath, lack of energy and fatigue, cardiac arrhythmias can significantly impact a person’s daily life. Early intervention is critical to preventing complications.
“In an audit done in the East of Ireland, 41% of strokes were attributed to AF; immediate assessment is required to start the patient on stroke prevention medications,” Boles says. “The earlier we can intercept cardiac arrhythmias and begin appropriate management, the better the outcome.”
Electrophysiologists are
medical specialists dedicated
to arrhythmia diagnosis and treatment.
Role of the electrophysiologist
Electrophysiologists are medical specialists dedicated to arrhythmia diagnosis and treatment. Their expertise is essential in managing arrhythmias effectively, utilising advanced technologies and personalised strategies to improve patient outcomes.
“Electrophysiologists facilitate in-depth investigation and prediction of arrhythmia risk using specialised tools,” explains Boles. “Additional investigations, such as comprehensive echocardiograms and advanced management strategies, are key to understanding the extent of the disease and guiding treatment plans.”
Changing face of treatment
Ablation, a procedure to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing arrhythmia, has improved significantly. It is becoming more effective and efficient with fewer complications and shorter recovery times. “There is a massive improvement in what we can provide. Ablation is becoming the first-line treatment in many situations and is more widely available, enabling us to offer life-changing interventions to more people,” says Boles.
Alongside the risk of stroke, AF can cause additional health complications, making ablation a powerful solution to manage and even eliminate symptoms. “We have various pathways, with rapid access arrhythmia clinics in public and private sectors, ensuring we can fast-track people with high risk, where all available treatment options are discussed,” he continues.
UPMC Whitfield Hospital now offers electrophysiology studies and catheter ablation for South East residents, allowing them to access these services closer to home.
