On Demand: Ischemic Stroke: Improving Efficiency and Outcomes Through Neurology-EP Collaboration-Webinar Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a recent webinar focused on ischemic stroke, Dr. Salman Azhar and Dr. Najeeb Chalfoon highlighted the importance of collaboration between neurology and electrophysiology to improve patient outcomes. The discussion emphasized the need for quick identification and continuous monitoring of cryptogenic stroke patients to detect atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common cause of subsequent strokes. Dr. Azhar described various hospital protocols that utilize implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs) for effective long-term monitoring and noted that immediate post-stroke monitoring without a gap significantly increases AFib detection, thus allowing for timely anticoagulation treatment to prevent further strokes.<br /><br />Dr. Chalfoon further elaborated on building multidisciplinary teams to implement stroke care pathways, detailing their experience with substantial growth in ICM use post-CRYSTAL-AF study. They underscored the cost-effectiveness and clinical benefits of ICMs, showcasing data demonstrating reduced healthcare costs and improved patient outcomes compared to traditional short-term monitoring methods.<br /><br />The webinar stressed the importance of standardized protocols and continuous collaboration among healthcare providers, fostering a unified approach to stroke management. The panel addressed challenges in creating cross-departmental teams, maintaining effective communication, and adapting to changing healthcare systems to ensure cohesive care administration. Overall, the session underscored the critical role of integrated healthcare strategies in reducing the risk and impact of secondary strokes.

Keywords

ischemic stroke

neurology

electrophysiology

atrial fibrillation

implantable cardiac monitors

stroke care pathways

multidisciplinary teams

CRYSTAL-AF study

anticoagulation treatment

integrated healthcare strategies