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The characterization of atrial fibrillation (AF) according to current guidelines categorically refers to the differentiation between paroxysmal, persistent, and permanent AF. A more precise characterization of AF, including the evaluation of AF burden, is playing an increasingly significant role in both scientific research and clinical practice. Digital devices, especially those with the capability of passive (semi-)continuous recording, can contribute to a more accurate quantification of AF burden. Particularly in patients with an already established diagnosis of AF, the evaluation of AF burden can be used to monitor the success of antiarrhythmic therapy including antiarrhythmic drugs or pulmonary vein isolation. However, important questions remain unanswered: In addition to a uniform, evidence-based definition of AF burden, clinically relevant cut-offs for AF burden and resulting therapeutic consequences (e.g., subclinical AF) need to be elaborated. Furthermore, the establishment and evaluation of care structures for assessing and integrating AF burden in clinical care, especially by incorporating data from wearable medical devices, should take place., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Antiarrhythmic drugs are important for the noninvasive rhythm control therapy of heart rhythm disorders. Antiarrhythmic drugs, which can be categorized into subgroups based on their different effects on ion channels, are clinically used for various types of arrhythmias. Knowledge about these specific electrophysiological effects contributes to a better understanding in order to select the correct drug for each specific arrhythmia. This review summarizes mechanisms, indications, contraindications, and side effects of the different antiarrhythmic drugs and, thus, supports their adequate use in daily clinical routine., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

By applying photoplethysmography (PPG), the camera of the mobile phone can be used to remotely assess heart rate and rhythm, which was widely used in conjunction with teleconsultations within the TeleCheck-AF project during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Herein, we provide an educational, structured, stepwise practical guide on how to interpret PPG signals. A better understanding of PPG recordings is critical for the implementation of this widely available technology into clinical practice., (© 2021. The Author(s).)