8^th Annual Heart Rhythm Conference October 17-18, 2024 Barcelona, Spain

Track 1: Heart Rhythm

Heart rhythm refers to the regularity or pattern of heartbeats. Normally, the heart beats in a rhythmic pattern, pumping blood throughout the body. The heart's rhythm is controlled by electrical signals that originate in the sinoatrial (SA) node, often called the heart's natural pacemaker. These electrical signals travel through the heart's conduction system, causing the heart muscles to contract and pump blood.

Several types of heart rhythm disorders, including:

• Bradycardia
• Tachycardia
• Arrhythmia
• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
• Atrial Flutter
• Ventricular Fibrillation

Monitoring heart rhythm is important for diagnosing and managing heart conditions. This can be done through electrocardiograms (ECGs or EKGs), Holter monitors (portable ECG devices worn for a period of time), event monitors (used for intermittent monitoring), or implantable devices like pacemakers and defibrillators. Treatment for heart rhythm disorders may involve medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like catheter ablation or implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator.

Track 2: Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias are irregular heart rhythms that can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. They can manifest as heartbeats that are too fast, too slow, or irregular in rhythm. Arrhythmias can occur due to various reasons, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, high blood pressure, medications, and other medical conditions. Some arrhythmias may not cause any symptoms and are only detected during medical check-ups, while others can cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting.

Various types of arrhythmias, including:

• Tachycardia
• Bradycardia
• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib):
• Atrial Flutter
• Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
• Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)

Treatment for arrhythmias depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause. It may include medications, lifestyle changes and medical procedures like catheter ablation or implantable devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators. Managing underlying conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes can also help prevent or control arrhythmias.

Track 3: Cardiovascular Diseases and Disorders

Cardiovascular diseases and disorders refer to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These conditions can encompass a variety of issues, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and peripheral artery disease, among others. They can lead to serious health complications, such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, and they are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and disorders include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, lack of physical activity, and genetic predisposition.

Some common cardiovascular diseases and disorders include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart failure
• Arrhythmias
• Heart valve diseases
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD):
• Stroke
• Peripheral venous disease

There are many other conditions that can affect the heart and blood vessels. Proper diagnosis, treatment, life style changes, medication and management are crucial for preventing complications and improving outcomes for people with these conditions.

Track 4: Heart regeneration        

Heart regeneration refers to the process by which damaged or injured heart tissue is repaired or replaced with new, healthy tissue. The human heart has limited regenerative capacity compared to some other tissues in the body, such as the skin or liver. However, research into heart regeneration aims to find ways to stimulate the growth of new heart muscle cells, improve the repair mechanisms within the heart, or even create artificial tissues or organs to replace damaged areas. This could potentially revolutionize the treatment of heart disease and conditions like heart attacks, allowing for more effective restoration of heart function and reducing the risk of long-term complications.

Some of researches include:

• Stem cell therapy
• Cardiac tissue engineering
• Gene therapy
• Bioactive molecules and growth factors
• Small molecules and drugs:
• Exosomes and extracellular vesicles

The ongoing research in this field offers hope for the development of new treatments for heart diseases in the future.

Track 5: Heart Diagnosis

When you visit a cardiologist, he\she will check your blood pressure, pulse rate, oxygen saturation level which are the vitals for heart functioning and ask about your personal and family medical history. Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases is done by various methods that give you a clear idea which includes:

• Physical Examination
• Blood Tests
• ECG
• Stress Test
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• EBCT
• MRI
• Catheterization and Angiography

Track 6: Cerebrovascular Diseases: Stroke Interventions & Carotid Stenting

Cerebrovascular diseases encompass a range of conditions affecting the blood vessels supplying the brain. A stroke caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain. It blocks brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. A stroke is a medical emergency and the treatment is crucial. Early action decrease brain damage and other complications.

Signs and symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the type of stroke and the part of the brain affected, but common signs and symptoms include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Difficulty in speaking and understanding 
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Severe headache
• Difficulty in walking
• Trouble with balance or coordination

Carotid Stenting: Carotid stenting refers to a procedure in which a heart surgeon inserts a stent, a slim, metal-mesh tube that expands inside the lumen of carotid artery to widen the artery as a result improving the blood flow to the brain and decrease the risk of stroke.

Overall, carotid artery stenting is a valuable option for certain patients at risk of stroke, but careful patient selection and procedural expertise are crucial to achieving optimal outcomes.

Track 7:  Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology

Heart failure is a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. As a result all major body functions are disturbed. It's a serious condition that requires medical attention and management. Heat failure can affect the left side or right side of heart or both at the same time. There are two main types of heart failure: Systolic heart failure, where the heart muscle becomes weakened and cannot pump blood effectively, and Diastolic heart failure, where the heart becomes stiff and cannot fill properly between beats.

A heart transplant, or a cardiac transplant, is a surgical transplant procedure performed on patients with end-stage heart failure or severe coronary artery disease when other treatments for heart conditions have been exhausted and the patient's quality of life is significantly impaired by their heart condition. The transplantation aims to improve the patient's quality of life and extend their lifespan by providing them with a functioning heart that can adequately pump blood throughout the body. It's a complex procedure that requires careful matching of donors and recipients, as well as lifelong medical management to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ.

Track 8: Cardiovascular surgeries

Cardiovascular surgery is a type of surgery performed by cardiac surgeons that includes the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular surgeries encompass a broad spectrum of procedures aimed at treating conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. These surgeries are often critical interventions for patients with various cardiac conditions, ranging from congenital heart defects to acquired diseases like coronary artery disease and heart failure.

Some common types of cardiovascular surgeries include:

• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
• Heart Valve Repair or Replacement
• Aortic Aneurysm Repair
• Heart Transplant
• Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Implantation
• Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
• Pacemaker Implantation

Track 9: Interventional Cardiology

Interventional cardiology is a specialized field of cardiology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases using minimally invasive procedures. These procedures are performed by interventional cardiologists, who are highly trained in using catheters and other devices to access the heart and blood vessels.

Here are some key aspects of interventional cardiology:

• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Coronary Angioplasty
• Peripheral Interventions
• Structural Heart Interventions
• Electrophysiology Procedures

Interventional cardiology has revolutionized the treatment of cardiovascular diseases by offering less invasive alternatives to traditional open-heart surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times, reduced complications, and improved outcomes for patients.

Track 10: Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to help people recover from heart-related issues such as heart attacks, heart surgeries, or other cardiac procedures. Cardiac rehabilitation involves exercise training, emotional support, counselling and education about a heart-healthy lifestyle habits include eating a nutritious diet, managing weight and quitting smoking to improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being It's a collaborative effort involving healthcare professionals, patients, and their families to promote cardiovascular health and well-being.

Here's a breakdown of what cardiac rehabilitation typically involves:

• Medical Evaluation
• Exercise Training
• Education and Counseling
• Risk Factor Management
• Psychosocial Support
• Long-Term Maintenance

Track 11: Heart Devices

Heart devices, also known as cardiac implants or cardiac devices, are medical devices designed to treat various heart conditions by regulating the heart's rhythm, supporting its function, or monitoring its activity. These devices play a crucial role in managing various cardiac conditions, improving quality of life, and extending survival in many patients with heart diseases. They are typically implanted during surgical procedures performed by cardiologists or cardiac surgeons. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential for patients with these devices to ensure their proper function and effectiveness in treating heart conditions.

Some common types include:

• Pacemakers
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs)
• Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) Devices
• Implantable Loop Recorders (ILRs)
• Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs)
• Artificial Hearts
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) Devices

Track 12: Cardiovascular Diabetology, Obesity

Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. Cardiovascular Diabetology seeks to understand the complex interplay between diabetes and cardiovascular health, as well as develop strategies for prevention and management personalised to individuals with diabetes. This field encompasses various aspects including risk assessment, lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and advanced medical technologies aimed at reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients.

Cardiovascular obesity, often referred to as obesity-related heart disease, is a condition where excess body fat negatively impacts heart health. It's a significant health concern worldwide due to its association with various cardiovascular problems such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. Preventing and managing cardiovascular obesity involves lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. In some cases, medication or surgical interventions may be necessary, particularly for individuals with severe obesity or obesity-related health complications.

Track 13: Cardio-Oncology

Cardio-Oncology is a field at the intersection of cardiology and oncology that focuses on the prevention, monitoring, and treatment of cardiovascular complications in cancer patients. It aims to optimize cardiac health before, during, and after cancer treatment, as many cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiology can have adverse effects on the heart. This specialty involves close collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists to ensure comprehensive care for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Track 14: Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. It's a significant risk factor for various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney and other diseases. Hypertension often has no symptoms, earning it the nickname "the silent killer." It's crucial to monitor and manage blood pressure through lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and sometimes medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential, especially for individuals with a family history of hypertension or other risk factors.

Risk Factors for Hypertension:

• Age
• Family history
• Unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.
• Medical conditions
• Ethnicity

Track 15: Impact of COVID-19 on Cardiovascular System

The most typical effect of Covid-19 on our lungs, but it can also cause major heart problems. According to the study, Covid-19 is one of the causes of cardiac damage, even in persons who do not have heart problems. There is a link between Covid-19 and cardiovascular disease. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the majority of patients die from cardiovascular illness. In Covid-19 patients who develop pneumonia, fever and infections make the heart rate to accelerate, increasing the effort of the heart. Blood pressure may drop, putting more strain on the heart which results the increase in oxygen demand and causes cardiac damage, especially if the heart arteries or muscles were already poor. This Heart damage is the main cause of heart attacks, formation of blood clots in valves, blocking of oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.

Track 16: Pediatric and Neonatal Cardiology

Pediatric cardiology deals with heart diseases and abnormalities that affect children, typically from birth to 18 years old. It encompasses a wide range of conditions, including congenital heart defects, acquired heart diseases, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and other structural abnormalities. Pediatric cardiologists are trained to diagnose these conditions through various methods, including echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), cardiac catheterization, and imaging studies, and they work closely with other pediatric specialists to provide comprehensive care.

Neonatal cardiology specifically focuses on diagnosing and treating heart conditions in newborn infants, particularly those born prematurely or with congenital heart defects. Neonatal cardiologists are experts in managing the unique challenges presented by the delicate cardiovascular systems of newborns, often working in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to provide specialized care to critically ill infants.

Track 17: Women Cardiovascular Health: Cardiac Problems during Pregnancy

Cardiac problems during pregnancy can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. Pregnancy puts an increased demand on the heart and circulatory system, and women with pre-existing heart conditions or those who develop complications during pregnancy may face additional challenges. During pregnancy, women should pay attention to warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, and palpitations, and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms. Proper prenatal care and early intervention can help minimize the risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

Some cardiac problems that can arise during pregnancy include:

• Pre-existing heart conditions
• Preeclampsia
• Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM)
• Gestational hypertension
• Heart rhythm disorders
• Aortic dissection
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)

Track 18: Geriatric Cardiology

Geriatric cardiology focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases in elderly patients. As people age, they become more susceptible to various cardiac conditions due to factors such as changes in heart structure and function, accumulation of risk factors over time, and the presence of other age-related health issues.

Common conditions addressed by geriatric cardiologists include:

• Coronary artery disease,
• Heart failure, arrhythmias,
• Valvular heart disease, and
• Hypertension

Treatment approaches may involve a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, cardiac procedures, and interventions aimed at optimizing cardiovascular health and quality of life in older adults.

Track 19: Cardio Medication

Heart medications are an important aspect of managing various heart conditions. It's important to note that the specific medications prescribed will depend on the individual's condition, medical history, and other factors. Always consult with a Cardiologist for personalized advice and treatment. Your cardiologist will give you the best suitable medicines. Certain types of medicines for cardiovascular diseases are:

• Beta-blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• Cardiac glycosides
• Blood thinners
• Antihypertensive
• Antiarrhythmic
• Antianginal
• Vasoactive peptides

It's important to note that these medications should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management are often recommended as part of the overall treatment plan for heart conditions.

Understanding your heart medication

It’s important to know what you’re taking, why you are taking it, and how it will affect you. When you’re given a new prescription, speak to your doctor about:

• The medication prescribed for you and its potential benefits and risks
• How to take it safely
• When to take it
• Possible side effects and what to do if you notice any
• Taking other kinds of medicine at the same time, including any over-the-counter medicines or supplements.

Track 20: Preventive Cardiology

Preventive cardiology is a branch of cardiology that focuses on preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and minimizing risk factors associated with heart disease. It plays a crucial role in reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases by addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting heart-healthy behaviors, ultimately leading to better overall cardiovascular health and improved quality of life. It emphasizes lifestyle modifications, early detection, and treatment of risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity.

Some components of preventive cardiology include:

• Lifestyle modifications (regular exercise, balanced diet, healthy weight, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco use)
• Screening and risk assessment
• Medical management
• Behavioral interventions
• Cardiac rehabilitation
• Public health initiatives

Track 21: Cardiac Nursing Care

Cardiac nursing care refers to the specialized care provided to patients with heart-related conditions or diseases. This type of nursing care involves a comprehensive approach to assess, monitor, and manage patients with various cardiac issues, including heart disease, arrhythmias, heart failure, hypertension, and post-operative cardiac surgery care. Cardiac nurses must be certified in both basic and advanced cardiac life support. They must have specialized training in areas such as defibrillation, ECG monitoring, and medicine administration via continuous intravenous drip. They work in a variety of settings.

• Cardiac catheterization
• Intensive care units (ICU)
• Operating theatres
• Coronary care units (CCU)

Track 22: Clinical Research in Cardiology

Clinical research in cardiology encompasses a broad spectrum of studies aimed at understanding, diagnosing, preventing, and treating cardiovascular diseases. Clinical research in cardiology is essential for advancing our understanding of cardiovascular diseases and improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice. Collaboration among clinicians, researchers, industry partners, and regulatory agencies is critical for translating scientific discoveries into clinical innovations that benefit patients worldwide.

Some key areas of research in cardiology:

• Epidemiology and Risk Factors
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Biomarkers
• Pharmacotherapy
• Interventional Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Cardiovascular Genetics
• Preventive Cardiology
• Health Services Research
• Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy

Heart Rhythm 2024 is the best platform for all recognized/ under- recognized scholastics in the field of Cardiology, Health specialists, analysts, educational scientists, industry researchers, scientists to exchange about research and developments in grounds of cardiology. The main focus of this meeting is to invigorate and globalize new thoughts and researches for treatment and to determine the current market for proceeding towards future of cardiovascular medicines, operational devices, and diagnostics, with an accentuation on new technology that will be advantageous in the field of Cardiology.

The global cardiac rhythm management devices market size was estimated at USD 18.57 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030. Growing prevalence of various cardiovascular diseases, such as arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation, among others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 12.1 million people in the U.S. are expected to suffer from atrial fibrillation (AFib) by 2030. Furthermore, various technological advancements related to the market such as integration of AI, remote monitoring, and wearable technology are also anticipated to fuel the market growth.

Owing to the increasing life expectancy and availability of advanced technologies, the adoption of CRM devices has increased in the past few years.  Heart disease is the major cause of death in recent years. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 17.9 million deaths occur annually due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Often referred to as the 'silent epidemic,' these diseases manifest symptoms slowly. Moreover, they are considered among the costliest health conditions to manage. CRM devices are used to manage and monitor cardiac issues and have applications in repairing, restoring, and healing cardiac activities. These associated benefits are expected to boost the adoption over the forecast period.