Key result
Tackling rising LMIC arrhythmia burden requires expanded access via telemedicine, reused pacemakers, and cost-effective ablation.
Why the study?
While the burden of arrhythmias is increasing in low- and middle-income countries, registries of electrophysiological disorders and their management remain limited.
Highlights the growing burden of arrhythmias in LMICs and proposes practical solutions like telemedicine, reused devices, and radiofrequency ablation to improve access to care.
Supports expanded access strategies for arrhythmias in LMICs; leaves open prospective validation of telemedicine and device reuse.
Concurrent with the epidemiological transition to cardiovascular diseases in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the burden of arrhythmias is increasing significantly. However, registries of electrophysiological disorders and their management in LMICs are limited. The advancement of telemedicine technology can play a distinctive role in providing accurate diagnoses in resource-limited settings. The estimated pacemaker implantation requirements (1 million per year) demand an alternate source of pacemakers, including reused permanent pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. In addition, the majority of supraventricular tachycardias and atrial fibrillation can be managed with radiofrequency ablation, which not only is cost-effective but is curative for most patients.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Khurshid et al. (2023) conducted a review in Arrhythmias and electrophysiological disorders. Electrophysiology practice (telemedicine, pacemakers, radiofrequency ablation) was evaluated. In low- and middle-income countries, the increasing burden of arrhythmias requires improved access to care through telemedicine, reused pacemakers, and cost-effective radiofrequency ablation.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: