2016 Focused Update of the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation

Early anti-coagulation therapy in new-onset atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting: a randomized trial pilot study

BACKGROUND

New-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery, increasing the risk of embolism and stroke. There is a lack of information on the use of anticoagulants in this context. The choice between Warfarin and Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) also is not well-established. This randomized study aimed to compare the feasibility and safety of Warfarin and Rivaroxaban in preventing thrombotic events in POAF patients after isolated CABG.

METHODS

A total of 66 patients were randomized parallelly with 1:1 allocation to receive either Rivaroxaban (n = 34) or Warfarin (n = 32). Major bleeding events within 30 days after discharge were the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included minor bleeding events and thrombotic episodes. Clinical characteristics, medication regimens, and left atrial diameter were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using appropriate tests.

RESULTS

No thrombotic episodes were observed in either treatment arm. No major bleeding events occurred in either group. Four minor bleeding events were reported, with no significant difference between the treatment groups (P = 0.6). Patients with atrial fibrillation had significantly larger left atrial diameters compared to those with normal sinus rhythm (40.5 vs. 37.8 mm, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study suggests that Warfarin and Rivaroxaban are both safe and effective for preventing thrombotic episodes in POAF patients after isolated CABG. No significant differences in major bleeding events were observed between the two anticoagulants. These findings may support the preference for DOACs like Rivaroxaban due to their convenience and easier maintenance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Number IRCT20200304046696N1, Date 18/03/2020 https//irct.behdasht.gov.ir/ .

Meta-analysis evaluating apixaban in patients with atrial fibrillation and end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis

Background

Warfarin is considered the primary oral anticoagulant for patients with atrial fibrillation and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis. Although warfarin can offer significant stroke prevention in this population, the accompanying major bleeding risks make warfarin nearly prohibitive. Apixaban was shown to be superior to warfarin in preventing stroke or systemic embolism, with a lower risk of bleeding and mortality in a large, randomized trial of individuals with mostly normal renal function but none with ESRD.

Methods

We systematically reviewed evidence comparing apixaban versus warfarin for atrial fibrillation in this population, and evaluated outcomes of stroke or systemic embolism, and major bleeding using random-effects models. The main safety outcome was major bleeding, and the main effectiveness outcome was stroke or systemic embolism.

Results

We found five observational studies of 10 036 patients (2638 receiving apixaban, and 7398 receiving warfarin) meeting inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in major bleeding with apixaban as compared to warfarin (odds ratio [OR] 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.61; p < .0001). Apixaban was also associated with a reduction in intracranial bleeding (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37-0.92; p = .02) and in gastrointestinal bleeding (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.51-0.73; p < .0001). Furthermore, apixaban was associated with a reduction in stroke/systemic embolism (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.50-0.82; p < .0001).

Conclusion

Apixaban was associated with superior outcomes and reduced adverse events compared to warfarin in observational studies of patients with atrial fibrillation on dialysis. Randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Interventions to prevent postoperative atrial fibrillation in Dutch cardiothoracic centres: a survey study

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common phenomenon following cardiac surgery. In this study, we assessed current preventive strategies used by Dutch cardiothoracic centres, identified common views on this matter and related these to international guidelines.

METHODS

We developed an online questionnaire and sent it to all cardiothoracic surgery centres in the Netherlands. The questionnaire concerned the management of POAF and the use of pharmaceutical therapies (beta-blockers and calcium antagonists) and non-pharmaceutical methods (posterior left pericardiotomy, pericardial flushing and epicardial botulinum toxin type A injections). Usage of electrical cardioversions, anticoagulants and left atrial appendage closure were also enquired.

RESULTS

Of the 15 centres, 14 (93%) responded to the survey and 13 reported a POAF incidence, ranging from 20 to 30%. Of these 14 centres, 6 prescribed preoperative AF prophylaxis to their patients, of which non-sotalol beta-blockers were prescribed most commonly (57%). Postoperative medication was administered by all centres and included non-sotalol beta-blockers (38%), sotalol (24%), digoxin (14%), calcium antagonists (13%) and amiodarone (10%). Only 2 centres used posterior left pericardiotomy or pericardial flushing as surgical manoeuvres to prevent POAF. Moreover, respondents expressed the need for guidance on anticoagulant use.

CONCLUSION

Despite the use of various preventive strategies, the reported incidence of POAF was similar in Dutch cardiothoracic centres. This study highlights limited use of prophylactic amiodarone and colchicine, despite recommendations by numerous guidelines, and restricted implementation of surgical strategies to prevent POAF.

Expert Consensus on Comprehensive Early Rhythm Control in Addition to Guideline-Based Care for Atrial Fibrillation: A Modified Delphi Survey

Atrial fibrillation (AF) practice guidelines recommend a rhythm-control strategy to improve symptoms and quality of life, noting the side effects of antiarrhythmic drugs and catheter ablation. Emerging evidence indicates that comprehensive early rhythm control with antiarrhythmic drugs or catheter ablation is associated with a lower risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes versus the usual care. Using an online modified Delphi survey approach, perspectives and expert consensus among electrophysiologists were examined through a series of ranking and likelihood questions around treatment decision-making on (1) the use of comprehensive early rhythm-control strategies in patients with AF based on guidelines and emerging research and (2) treatment selection factors. A panel of 17 electrophysiologists reached a consensus on using early rhythm control (median 90, interquartile range 14) based on the view that early intervention improved cardiovascular outcomes (mean rank 1.6 of 3, 82% within 1 SD) and symptoms (1.8 of 3, 41%). AF-related symptoms were identified as the most important in making a treatment initiation decision (1.1 of 7, 88%), followed by AF type (2.5 of 7, 82%). Participants were most likely to initiate treatment at AF symptom onset (median 80; interquartile range 6). In making treatment selection decisions, participants ranked short-term/long-term safety (1.9 of 7, 88%) and efficacy (1.8 of 7, 53%) as the top 2 considerations. In conclusion, experts were in favor of early rhythm control; however, additional research is needed to address the role that early rhythm-control strategies play in current AF treatment management algorithms.

Relationships, Current Issues, Safety and Efficacy of Oral Anticoagulation in Cancer Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

A relationship between malignancy and impaired hemostasis has been proven, and balancing clotting and bleeding risks can be challenging. Half of cancer patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) do not receive any oral anticoagulation (OAC). Using PubMed on the relationship between cancer and AF and their association with hemostasis, targeting studies comparing vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and direct OAC (DOAC) strategies in AF cancer patients, three RCTs (>3000 patients) and eight observational studies (>250,000 patients) comparing different OACs were retrieved. The VKA prescribed was always warfarin. Dabigatran was the only DOAC not analyzed in the RCTs but the most used in non-randomized studies, whereas edoxaban-treated patients were the majority in the RCTs. Overall, the DOAC patients showed similar or lower rates of efficacy (thromboembolic) and safety (bleeding) outcomes compared to the VKA patients. DOACs are subject to fewer interactions with antineoplastic agents. DOACs may be preferable to VKAs as a thromboembolic prophylaxis in cancer patients with non-valvular AF.

Rhythm vs. Rate Control in Patients with Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication after cardiac surgery; it is associated with morbidity and mortality. We undertook this review to compare the effects of rhythm vs. rate control in this population.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL to March 2023. We included randomized trials and observational studies comparing rhythm to rate control in cardiac surgery patients with POAF. We used a random-effects model to meta-analyze data and rated the quality of evidence using GRADE.

RESULTS

From 8,110 citations, we identified 8 randomized trials (990 patients). Drug regimens used for rhythm control included amiodarone in four trials, other class III anti-arrhythmics in one trial, class I anti-arrhythmics in four trials and either a class I or III anti-arrhythmic in one trial. Rhythm control compared to rate control did not result in a significant difference in length of stay (mean difference -0.8 days; 95% CI -3.0 to +1.4, I² = 97%), AF recurrence within 1 week (130 events; risk ratio [RR] 1.1; 95%CI 0.6-1.9, I² = 54%), AF recurrence up to 1 month (37 events; RR 0.9; 95%CI 0.5-1.8, I² = 0%), AF recurrence up to 3 months (10 events; RR 1.0; 95%CI 0.3-3.4, I² = 0%) or mortality (25 events; RR 1.6; 95%CI 0.7-3.5, I² = 0%). Effect measures from seven observational studies (1428 patients) did not differ appreciably from those in randomized trials.

CONCLUSIONS

Although atrial fibrillation is common after cardiac surgery, limited low-quality data guide its management. Limited available evidence suggests no clear advantage to either rhythm or rate control. A large-scale randomized trial is needed to inform this important clinical question.

Does early detection of atrial fibrillation reduce the risk of thromboembolic events? Rationale and design of the Heartline study

BACKGROUND

The impact of using direct-to-consumer wearable devices as a means to timely detect atrial fibrillation (AF) and to improve clinical outcomes is unknown.

METHODS

Heartline is a pragmatic, randomized, and decentralized application-based trial of US participants aged ≥65 years. Two randomized cohorts include adults with possession of an iPhone and without a history of AF and those with a diagnosis of AF taking a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) for ≥30 days. Participants within each cohort are randomized (3:1) to either a core digital engagement program (CDEP) via iPhone application (Heartline application) and an Apple Watch (Apple Watch Group) or CDEP alone (iPhone-only Group). The Apple Watch Group has the watch irregular rhythm notification (IRN) feature enabled and access to the ECG application on the Apple Watch. If an IRN notification is issued for suspected AF then the study application instructs participants in the Apple Watch Group to seek medical care. All participants were "watch-naïve" at time of enrollment and have an option to either buy or loan an Apple Watch as part of this study. The primary end point is time from randomization to clinical diagnosis of AF, with confirmation by health care claims. Key secondary endpoint are claims-based incidence of a 6-component composite cardiovascular/systemic embolism/mortality event, DOAC medication use and adherence, costs/health resource utilization, and frequency of hospitalizations for bleeding. All study assessments, including patient-reported outcomes, are conducted through the study application. The target study enrollment is approximately 28,000 participants in total; at time of manuscript submission, a total of 26,485 participants have been enrolled into the study.

CONCLUSION

The Heartline Study will assess if an Apple Watch with the IRN and ECG application, along with application-facilitated digital health engagement modules, improves time to AF diagnosis and cardiovascular outcomes in a real-world environment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04276441.

Diagnosis and management of patients who present with narrow complex tachycardia in the emergency department

INTRODUCTION

While narrow complex tachycardia (NCT) is a common presentation to the emergency department (ED), little is known about its incidence in the ED or about emergency physician expertise in its diagnosis and management. We sought to compare cases of NCT due to primary arrhythmias to those with a rapid heart rate secondary to a medical issue, as well as to determine the accuracy of ED physician diagnosis and appropriateness of treatment.

METHODS

We conducted a health records review at a large academic hospital ED staffed by 95 physicians and included consecutive adult patients over 7 months (2020-2021) with NCT (heart rate ≥ 130 bpm and QRS < 120 ms). Cases were reviewed for accuracy of ECG diagnosis and for correctness of treatment as per guidelines by an adjudication committee.

RESULTS

We identified 310 ED visits (0.8% of all ED visits), mean age 65.1 years, 52.6% female. Primary arrhythmias accounted for 54.8%. ED physicians correctly interpreted 86.6% of ECGs. The most common arrhythmias and accuracy of ED physician ECG interpretation were atrial fibrillation 44.5% (95.1%), sinus tachycardia 24.2% (90.5%), atrial flutter 15.8% (61.5%), and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) 12.9% (81.6%). Treatments were judged optimal in 96.5% of primary NCT and 99.3% in secondary NCT. Treatments were suboptimal for failure to reduce heart rate < 100 bpm prior to discharge in 2.1% of primary cases and failure to treat underlying cause in 0.7% of secondary cases.

CONCLUSION

NCT was found in 0.8% of all ED visits, with more being primary NCT. ED physicians correctly interpreted 86.6% of ECGs but had difficulty differentiating atrial flutter and SVT. They implemented appropriate care in most cases but sometimes failed to adequately control heart rate or to treat the underlying condition, suggesting opportunities to improve care of NCT in the ED.

Management of atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response in patients with acute decompensated heart failure: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of pharmacological and nonpharmacological management options for atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter with rapid ventricular response (AFRVR) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) in the acute care setting.

METHODS

This study was a systematic review of observational studies or randomized clinical trials (RCT) of adult patients with AFRVR and concomitant ADHF in the emergency department (ED), intensive care unit, or step-down unit. The primary effectiveness outcome was successful rate or rhythm control. Safety outcomes were adverse events, such as symptomatic hypotension and venous thromboembolism.

RESULTS

A total of 6577 unique articles were identified. Five studies met inclusion criteria: one RCT in the inpatient setting and four retrospective studies, two in the ED and the other three in the inpatient setting. In the RCT of diltiazem versus placebo, 22 patients (100%) in the treatment group had a therapeutic response compared to 0/15 (0%) in the placebo group, with no significant safety differences between the two groups. For three of the observational studies, data were limited. One observation study showed no difference between metoprolol and diltiazem for successful rate control, but worsening heart failure symptoms occurred more frequently in those receiving diltiazem compared to metoprolol (19 patients [33%] vs. 10 patients [15%], p = 0.019). A single study included electrical cardioversion (one patient exposed with failure to convert to sinus rhythm) as nonpharmacological management. The overall risk of bias for included studies ranged from serious to critical. Missing data and heterogeneity of definitions for effectiveness and safety outcomes precluded the combination of results for quantitative meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

High-level evidence to inform clinical decision making regarding effective and safe management of AFRVR in patients with ADHF in the acute care setting is lacking.

Post-operative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: Challenges throughout the patient journey

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common complication of cardiac surgery, occurring in up to half of patients. Post-operative AF (POAF) refers to new-onset AF in a patient without a history of AF that occurs within the first 4 weeks after cardiac surgery. POAF is associated with short-term mortality and morbidity, but its long-term significance is unclear. This article reviews existing evidence and research challenges for the management of POAF in patients who have had cardiac surgery. Specific challenges are discussed in four phases of care. Pre-operatively, clinicians need to be able to identify high-risk patients, and initiate prophylaxis to prevent POAF. In hospital, when POAF is detected, clinicians need to manage symptoms, stabilize hemodynamics and prevent increases in length of stay. In the month after discharge, the focus is on minimizing symptoms and preventing readmission. Some patients require short term oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention. Over the long term (2-3  months after surgery and beyond), clinicians need to identify which patients with POAF have paroxysmal or persistent AF and can benefit from evidence-based therapies for AF, including long-term oral anticoagulation.

Evolution of and Evidence-Practice Gaps in Antithrombotic Management of Atrial Fibrillation Patients After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background

The management of atrial fibrillation and flutter (AF) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has evolved rapidly in the past decade. We determine whether the publication of the 2016 Canadian Cardiovascular Society AF guidelines were associated with a shift in practice patterns.

Methods

Using Quebec provincial administrative database information for the period from 2010-2017, a retrospective cohort of patients with inpatient or outpatient coding for AF, who subsequently underwent PCI with placement of a coronary stent, was created and analyzed for the antithrombotic regimen received in the following year. Prescribing behavior was compared among 3 time periods (2010-2011, 2012-2015, 2016-2017), and use of antithrombotics was compared to guideline-predicted therapy using the χ² test. Predictors of oral anticoagulation (OAC) prescription were identified using adjusted logistic regression.

Results

A total of 3740 AF patients undergoing PCI were included. The proportion of OAC prescription increased over time (2010-2011 = 51.4%; 2012-2015 = 54.3%; 2016-2017 = 56.6%; P = 0.13), with a significant increase in direct OAC prescription (P < 0.01). A substantial treatment gap in OAC prescription persisted after publication of the 2016 guidelines (56.6% observed vs 89.7% predicted; P < 0.01). Previous stroke, CHADS₂ score, Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 4, and prior use of direct OAC or warfarin were predictors of being exposed to OAC claims; previous major bleeding, and low-dose acetylsalicylic acid or P2Y12 inhibitor use were predictors of not being exposed to OACs.

Conclusion

Expert guidance contributed to an increase in OAC prescription following PCI, but up to 2017, substantial further changes in practice patterns would have been required to achieve the recommended rates of OAC prescription.

A Comparative Study of the Clinical Benefits of Rivaroxaban and Warfarin in Patients With Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation With High Bleeding Risk

Objective

To compare the clinical benefits of rivaroxaban and warfarin in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) with high bleeding risk.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on patients with high bleeding risk NVAF who were hospitalized at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University between May 31, 2016 and May 31, 2019 and took at least rivaroxaban and warfarin. The clinical benefits of both drugs were assessed by efficacy benefit and safety risk. The primary efficacy benefit was a composite end point for stroke (both ischemic and hemorrhagic) and systemic embolism. The secondary efficacy end points were death and myocardial infarction (MI). The principal safety end point was the composite end point of fatal bleeding and critical organ bleeding.

Results

A total of 1,246 patients with high bleeding risk were enrolled, including 787 patients in the rivaroxaban group and 459 patients in the warfarin group. Results of the primary efficacy benefit endpoint were obtained from 104 patients (13.2%) in the rivaroxaban group and 88 (19.2%) patients in the warfarin group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.681; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.512–0.906; P &lt; 0.001 for non-inferiority). The principal safety end points were observed in 49 (6.23%) patients in the rivaroxaban group and in 55 (11.98%) patients in the warfarin group (HR: 0.469 in the rivaroxaban group; 95% CI: 0.314–0.702; P &lt; 0.001). With respect to secondary efficacy and benefit endpoints, 28 (3.56%) patients in the rivaroxaban group and 22 (4.79%) patients in the warfarin group died, with an HR of 0.760 (95% CI: 0.435–1.329; P = 0.336); 32 (4.07%) patients in the rivaroxaban group; and 26 (5.66%) patients in the warfarin group had MI, with an HR of 1.940 (95% CI: 0.495–1.069, P = 0.254) in the rivaroxaban group.

Conclusions

Rivaroxaban is non-inferior to warfarin in the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with high blood NVAF. Rivaroxaban is superior to warfarin in reducing fatal bleeding and bleeding in critical organs.

Clinical Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trials Registry, identifier ChiCTR2100052454.

Asymptomatic Stroke in the Setting of Percutaneous Non-Coronary Intervention Procedures

Advancements in clinical management, pharmacological therapy and interventional procedures have strongly improved the survival rate for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Nevertheless, the patients affected by CVDs are more often elderly and present several comorbidities such as atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, heart failure, and chronic coronary syndrome. Standard treatments are frequently not available for “frail patients”, in particular due to high surgical risk or drug interaction. In the past decades, novel less-invasive procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), MitraClip or left atrial appendage occlusion have been proposed to treat CVD patients who are not candidates for standard procedures. These procedures have been confirmed to be effective and safe compared to conventional surgery, and symptomatic thromboembolic stroke represents a rare complication. However, while the peri-procedural risk of symptomatic stroke is low, several studies highlight the presence of a high number of silent ischemic brain lesions occurring mainly in areas with a low clinical impact. The silent brain damage could cause neuropsychological deficits or worse, a preexisting dementia, suggesting the need to systematically evaluate the impact of these procedures on neurological function.

Cardiac CT angiography after percutaneous left atrial appendage closure: early versus delayed scanning after contrast administration

PURPOSE

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is increasingly used for device surveillance after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC). While CT protocols with delayed scans are useful to diagnose thrombus in the LAA, an optimal protocol for post-procedural CCTA has not been established. Therefore, we assessed the role of delayed versus early scans for device surveillance.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent LAAC at Vancouver General Hospital who had follow-up CCTAs using standard (early) and delayed scans. Scans were performed on Toshiba 320-detector (Aquilion ONE). Image quality was interpreted by 2 independent observers for anatomy, LAA contrast patency, and device-related thrombus (DRT) using VitreaWorkstationTM. A Likert scale of 1-5 was used (1= poor quality, 5= excellent) for assessment.

RESULTS

We included 27 consecutive LAAC patients (9 Amplatzer, 18 WATCHMAN) with mean age 76.0±7.7 years, mean CHADS2 score 2.8±1.3, CHA2DS2-VASc score 4.4±1.6 and HAS-BLED score 3.4±1.0. Subjective quality assessments by both reviewers favored early scans for assessment of anatomy (reviewer 1: 4.63±0.63 [early] vs. 1.74±0.71 [delayed]; reviewer 2: 4.63±0.63 [early] vs. 1.89±0.64 [delayed]) and DRT (reviewer 1: 4.78±0.42 [early] vs. 3.11±1.16 [delayed]; reviewer 2: 4.70±0.47 [early] vs. 3.04±1.29 [delayed]). Inter-rater variability showed good correlation between reviewers (intraclass correlation 0.61-0.95). Mean LAA/LA attenuation ratios were significantly different between scans, with larger mean percent reduction of contrast opacification from LA to LAA in the early scans (57.0±36.6% reduction for early vs. 29.1±30.8% for delayed; p < 0.001) CONCLUSION: For CT device surveillance post-LAAC early phase imaging provides superior image quality objectively and subjectively compared with delayed scanning.

Fundamentals of arrhythmogenic mechanisms and treatment strategies for equine atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common pathological arrhythmia in horses. Although it is not usually a life-threatening condition on its own, it can cause poor performance and make the horse unsafe to ride. It is a complex multifactorial disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors including exercise training, comorbidities or ageing. The interactions between all these factors in horses are still not completely understood and the pathophysiology of AF remains poorly defined. Exciting progress has been recently made in equine cardiac electrophysiology in terms of diagnosis and documentation methods such as cardiac mapping, implantable electrocardiogram (ECG) recording devices or computer-based ECG analysis that will hopefully improve our understanding of this disease. The available pharmaceutical and electrophysiological treatments have good efficacy and lead to a good prognosis for AF, but recurrence is a frequent issue that veterinarians have to face. This review aims to summarise our current understanding of equine cardiac electrophysiology and pathophysiology of equine AF while providing an overview of the mechanism of action for currently available treatments for equine AF.

Rates of rebleeding, thrombosis and mortality associated with resumption of anticoagulant therapy after anticoagulant-related bleeding

BACKGROUND:

Data on resuming oral anticoagulants (OACs) after bleeding are primarily from studies involving patients given warfarin, with few data on direct OACs (DOACs). We aimed to characterize prescribing patterns for OACs after OAC-related bleeding and compare the rates of bleeding, thrombosis and mortality in patients who resumed either type of OAC with those who did not.

METHODS:

We conducted a population-based cohort study of adults aged 66 years or older who were admitted to hospital for bleeding while receiving OACs from Apr. 1, 2012, to Mar. 31, 2017, using linked administrative health databases from Ontario. We used competing risk methods to calculate cause-specific adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for thrombosis, bleeding and mortality with resumption of OACs adjusted as a time-varying covariate. We determined time to OAC resumption using the Kaplan–Meier method.

RESULTS:

We included 6793 patients with gastrointestinal (n = 4297, 63.3%), intracranial (n = 805, 11.9%) or other bleeding (n = 1691, 25.0%). At cohort entry, 3874 patients (57.0%) were prescribed warfarin and 2919 patients (43.0%) were prescribed a DOAC. The most common indication for OAC was atrial fibrillation (n = 5557, 81.8%), followed by venous thromboembolism (n = 1367, 20.1%). Oral anticoagulants were resumed in 4792 patients (70.5%) within 365 days of the index bleed. The median time to resumption was 46 (interquartile range 6–550) days. We found that resuming OAC was associated with reduced rates of thrombosis (adjusted HR 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50–0.72) and mortality (adjusted HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.48–0.60), and an increased rate of rebleeding (adjusted HR 1.88, 95% CI 1.64–2.17).

INTERPRETATION:

We found that resuming OAC is associated with a reduction in thrombosis and mortality but an increase in bleeding. Randomized controlled trials that evaluate the net benefit of strategies for resumption of OAC after a bleeding event are warranted.

Evolution of Antithrombotic Management of Atrial Fibrillation After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Over 10 Years and Guidelines Uptake

Background

The management of atrial fibrillation and/or flutter (AF) patients requiring percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has evolved significantly. The Canadian Cardiovascular Society AF guidelines, last updated in 2020, seek to aid physicians in balancing both bleeding and thrombotic risks.

Methods

A tertiary academic centre registry of patients with AF who had PCI was examined for the antithrombotic therapy at discharge in 4 time periods (cohort 2010–2011; cohort 2014–2015; cohort 2017; cohort 2019). Discharge prescription patterns were compared among the cohorts, using the χ² test. In addition, antithrombotic management in cohorts 2017 and 2019 were compared to guideline-expected therapy, using the χ² test.

Results

A total of 576 AF patients undergoing PCI were included. Clinical and procedural characteristics were similar among cohorts, except for an increase in drug-eluting stent use in the most recent cohort (94% vs 99%; P = 0.04). The rate of oral anticoagulation increased over time (75% vs 89%; P < 0.01), driven primarily by an increase in direct oral anticoagulants prescription (63% vs 84%; P < 0.01). In contrast to previous cohorts, there was no significant difference between the observed and the guideline-expected anticoagulation rate in cohort 2019 (89% vs 94%; P = 0.23).

Conclusions

A combination of expert guidance and educational initiatives in the past decade contributed to dramatic changes in the management of patients with AF undergoing PCI.

Utilization and long-term persistence of direct oral anticoagulants among patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and liver disease

AIMS

We characterized the utilization and long-term treatment persistence of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and liver disease.

METHOD

Using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink, we assembled a population-based cohort of NVAF patients with liver disease initiating oral anticoagulants between 2011 and 2020. Logistic regression estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the association between patient characteristics and initiation of DOACs vs vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of the association between patient characteristics and the switch from VKAs to DOACs vs remaining on VKAs. We also assessed the 5-year treatment persistence with DOACs vs VKAs, and whether ischemic stroke or bleeding preceded treatment discontinuation.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 3167 NVAF patients with liver disease initiating DOACs (n = 2247, 71%) or VKAs (n = 920, 29%). Initiators of DOACs were more likely to have prior ischemic stroke (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.12-1.85) than VKA initiators but less likely to have used antiplatelet agents (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.82). Patients switching to DOACs were more likely to have used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.13-2.37) than those remaining on VKAs. At 5 years, 31% of DOAC initiators and 9% of VKA initiators remained persistent. Only few patients were diagnosed with ischemic stroke or bleeding prior to treatment discontinuation.

CONCLUSION

Most NVAF patients with liver disease initiated treatment with DOACs. Long-term persistence with DOACs was higher than with VKAs but remained relatively low.

Oral anticoagulation for patients with atrial fibrillation in the ED: RE-LY AF registry analysis

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) reduces stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to determine predictors of OAC initiation in AF patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). Secondary analysis of the RE-LY AF registry which enrolled individuals from 47 countries between 2007 and 2011 who presented to an ED with AF and followed them for 1 year. A total of 4149 patients with AF as their primary diagnosis who were not already taking OAC and had a CHA₂DS₂-VASc ≥ 1 for men or ≥ 2 for women were included in this analysis. Of these individuals, 26.8% were started on OAC (99.2% vitamin K antagonists) in the ED and 29.8% were using OAC one year later. Factors associated with initiating OAC in the ED included: specialist consultation (relative risk [RR] 1.84, 95%CI 1.44-2.36), rheumatic heart disease (RR 1.60, 95%CI 1.29-1.99), persistence of AF at ED discharge (RR 1.33, 95%CI 1.18-1.50), diabetes mellitus (RR 1.32, 95%CI 1.19-1.47), and hospital admission (RR 1.30, 95%CI 1.14-1.47). Heart failure (RR 0.83, 95%CI 0.74-0.94), antiplatelet agents (RR 0.77, 95%CI 0.69-0.84), and dementia (RR 0.61, 95%CI 0.40-0.94) were inversely associated with OAC initiation. Patients taking OAC when they left the ED were more likely using OAC at 1-year (RR 2.81, 95%CI 2.55-3.09) and had lower rates of death (RR 0.55, 95%CI 0.38-0.79) and stroke (RR 0.59, 95%CI 0.37-0.96). In patients with AF presenting to the ED, prompt initiation of OAC and specialist involvement are associated with a greater use of OAC 1 year later and may result in improved clinical outcomes.

Major bleeding in users of direct oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation: A pooled analysis of results from multiple population-based cohort studies

Objective

To establish the risk of major bleeding in direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) users (overall and by class) versus vitamin K antagonist (VKA) users, using health care databases from four European countries and six provinces in Canada.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed according to a similar protocol. First‐users of VKAs or DOACs with a diagnosis of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) were included. The main outcome of interest was major bleeding and secondary outcomes included gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and intracranial haemorrhage (ICH). Incidence rates of events per 1000 person years were calculated. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated using a Cox proportional hazard regression model. Exposure and confounders were measured and analysed in a time‐dependant way. Risk estimates were pooled using a random effect model.

Results

421 523 patients were included. The risk of major bleeding for the group of DOACs compared to VKAs showed a pooled HR of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.87–1.02). Rivaroxaban showed a modestly increased risk (HR 1.11, 95% CI: 1.06–1.16). Apixaban and dabigatran showed a decreased risk of respectively HR 0.76 (95% CI: 0.69–0.84) and HR 0.85 (95% CI: 0.75–0.96).

Conclusions

This study confirms that the risk of major bleeding of DOACs compared to VKAs is not increased when combining all DOACs. However, we observed a modest higher risk of major bleeding for rivaroxaban, whereas for apixaban and dabigatran lower risks of major bleeding were observed compared to VKAs.

Perioperative Care of Patients at High Risk for Stroke During or After Non-cardiac, Non-neurological Surgery: 2020 Guidelines From the Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care

Perioperative stroke is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Stroke recognition and diagnosis are challenging perioperatively, and surgical patients receive therapeutic interventions less frequently compared with stroke patients in the outpatient setting. These updated guidelines from the Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care provide evidence-based recommendations regarding perioperative care of patients at high risk for stroke. Recommended areas for future investigation are also proposed.

RAFF-3 Trial: A Stepped-Wedge Cluster Randomized Trial to Improve Care of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter in the Emergency Department

BACKGROUND

We sought to improve care of patients with acute atrial fibrillation (AF) and flutter (AFL) in the emergency department (ED) by implementing the CAEP AAFF Best Practice Checklist.

METHODS

We conducted a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial at 11 large community and academic hospital EDs, in five Canadian provinces and enrolled consecutive AF/AFL patients. The study intervention was the introduction of the CAEP Checklist using a knowledge translation-implementation approach that included behavior change techniques and organization/system level strategies. The primary outcome was length of stay in ED and secondary outcomes were discharge home, use of rhythm control, adverse events, and 30-day status. Analysis used mixed effects regression adjusting for covariates.

RESULTS

Patient visits in the control (N=314) and intervention (N=404) periods were similar with mean age 62.9, 54% male, 71% onset <12 hours, and 86% atrial fibrillation, 14% atrial flutter. We observed a reduction in length of stay of 20.9% (95% CI 5.5 to 33.8%, P=0.01), an increase in use of rhythm control (adjusted odds ratio (OR 4.5, 1.8-11.6; P=0.002), and decrease in use of rate control medications (OR 0.5, 0.2 to 0.9; P=0.02). There was no change in adverse events and no strokes or deaths by 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The RAFF-3 Trial led to optimized care of AF/AFL patients with decreased ED lengths of stay, increased ED rhythm control by drug or electricity, and no increase in adverse events. Early cardioversion allows AF/AFL patients to quickly resume normal activities. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT03627143.

Association Between Perioperative Atrial Fibrillation and Long-term Risks of Stroke and Death in Noncardiac Surgery: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently reported as a complication of noncardiac surgery. It is unknown whether new-onset perioperative AF is associated with an increased risk of stroke and death beyond the perioperative period. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the long-term risks of stroke and mortality associated with new-onset perioperative AF after noncardiac surgery.

METHODS

MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from inception to March 2020 for studies reporting on the association between perioperative AF and the risk of stroke and death occurring beyond 30 days after noncardiac surgery. Reference screening, study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed in duplicate. Data were pooled using inverse variance-weighted random-effects models and presented as risk ratios (RRs).

RESULTS

From 7344 citations, we included 31 studies (3,529,493 patients). The weighted mean incidence of perioperative AF was 0.7%. During a mean follow-up of 28.1 ± 9.4 months, perioperative AF was associated with an increased risk of stroke (1.5 vs 0.9 strokes per 100 patient-years; RR: 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.1-3.9, I2 = 78%). Perioperative AF was also associated with a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (21.0 vs 7.6 deaths per 100 patient-years; RR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.5-2.2, I2 = 94%). The pooled adjusted hazard ratios for stroke and all-cause mortality were 1.9 (95% CI: 1.6-2.2, I2 = 31%) and 1.5 (95% CI: 1.3-1.7, I2 = 20%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who had perioperative AF after noncardiac surgery had a higher long-term risk of stroke and mortality compared with patients who did not. Whether this risk is modifiable with oral anticoagulation therapy should be investigated.

Adverse event rates associated with oral anticoagulant treatment early versus later after hospital discharge in older adults: a retrospective population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Oral anticoagulants are commonly used high-risk medications, but little is known about their safety in transition from hospital to home. Our objective was to measure the rates of hemorrhage and thromboembolic events among older adults receiving oral anticoagulant treatment early after hospital discharge compared to later.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective population-based cohort study among Ontario residents aged 66 years or more who started, continued or resumed oral anticoagulant therapy at hospital discharge between September 2010 and March 2015. We calculated the rates of hemorrhage and thromboembolic events requiring hospital admission or an emergency department visit over a 1-year follow-up period, stratified by the first 30 days after discharge and the remainder of the year. We used multivariable regression models, adjusting for covariates, to estimate the effect of sex, prevalent versus incident use, and switching anticoagulants on events.

RESULTS

A total of 123 139 patients (68 408 women [55.6%]; mean age 78.2 yr) were included. About one-quarter (32 563 [26.4%]) had a Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 2 or higher. The rates of hemorrhage and thromboembolic events per 100 person-years were highest during the first 30 days after hospital discharge (25.8, 95% CI 24.8-26.8 and 19.3, 95% CI 18.4-20.2, respectively), falling to 15.7 (95% CI 15.3-16.1) and 6.9 (95% CI 6.6-7.1), respectively, during the subsequent 11 months. Multivariable analysis showed that patients whose anticoagulant was switched in hospital and men had more hemorrhages and thromboembolic events in follow-up.

INTERPRETATION

The first few weeks following hospital discharge represent a very high-risk period for adverse events related to oral anticoagulant treatment among older adults. The results support an intervention trial addressing anticoagulation management in the early postdischarge period.

Stroke in Surgical Patients

Stroke is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The aim of this review is to provide an evidence-based synthesis of the literature related to perioperative stroke, including its etiology, common risk factors, and potential risk reduction strategies. In addition, the authors will discuss screening methods for the detection of postoperative cerebral ischemia and how multidisciplinary collaborations, including endovascular interventions, should be considered to improve patient outcomes. Lastly, the authors will discuss the clinical and scientific knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to reduce the incidence and improve outcomes after perioperative stroke.

Atrial electromechanical delay and p wave dispersion associated with severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) with both electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Methods

Total of 110 patients were included in this cross-sectional case-control study. P-wave dispersion (PWD) was measured on a 12-lead ECG. Atrial electromechanical intervals (PA) were measured as the time interval between the onset of the P wave on the ECG and the beginning of the late diastolic A wave.

Results

PWD was found to be 40.9±9.2 ms in the healthy control group, 45.6±8.2 ms in the mild COPD and 44.8±8.7 ms in the severe COPD group (p<0.05). Intra-right atrial EMD was found to be 10.7±5.8 ms in mild COPD, 11.0±7 ms in severe COPD, and it was 16.4±7.3 ms in healthy control group (p<0.001). Interatrial EMD was detected to be 29.5±9.1 ms in the control group, 24.1±9 ms in mild COPD group, and 23.9±11.1 ms in the severe COPD group (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Both mild and severe COPD groups decreased PWD, increased tricuspid PA and significantly decreased interand right intra-AEMD times in comparison to the control group.

Managing the coagulopathy associated with cardiopulmonary bypass

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has allowed for significant surgical advancements, but accompanying risks can be significant and must be expertly managed. One of the foremost risks is coagulopathic bleeding. Increasing levels of bleeding in cardiac surgical patients at the time of separation from CPB are associated with poor outcomes and mortality. CPB-associated coagulopathy is typically multifactorial and rarely due to inadequate reversal of systemic heparin alone. The components of the bypass circuit induce systemic inflammation and multiple disturbances of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems. Anticipating coagulopathy is the first step in managing it, and specific patient and procedural risk factors have been identified as predictors of excessive bleeding. Medication management pre-procedure is critical, as patients undergoing cardiac surgery are commonly on anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. Important adjuncts to avoid transfusion include antifibrinolytics, and perfusion practices such as red cell salvage, sequestration, and retrograde autologous priming of the bypass circuit have varying degrees of evidence supporting their use. Understanding the patient's coagulation status helps target product replacement and avoid larger volume transfusion. There is increasing recognition of the role of point-of-care viscoelastic and functional platelet testing. Common pitfalls in the management of post-CPB coagulopathy include overdosing protamine for heparin reversal, imperfect laboratory measures of thrombin generation that result in normal or near-normal laboratory results in the presence of continued bleeding, and delayed recognition of surgical bleeding. While challenging, the effective management of CPB-associated coagulopathy can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Post-Cardiac Surgery Atrial Fibrillation: Risks, Mechanisms, Prevention, and Management

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common complication of cardiac surgery (CS). There are numerous risk factors, proposed mechanisms, and financial/clinical implications of post-CS AF (PCSAF). Management involves 2 arms: prevention and treatment. This review highlights and summarizes previous literature on PCSAF and challenges the standard dogma regarding anticoagulation, particularly in the short term.

Impaired Left Atrial Performance Resulting From Age-Related Arial Fibrillation Is Associated With Increased Fibrosis Burden: Insights From a Clinical Study Combining With an in vivo Experiment

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly considered an age-related degenerative disease, whose process is associated with the development of impaired left atrial (LA) performance. However, the subtle dynamic changes of LA performance in AF during aging have yet to be fully elucidated. Atrial fibrosis is a key substrate for the development of AF, but the progression of fibrosis during aging and its relationship with LA dysfunction need to be further explored. Methods: A total of 132 control individuals and 117 persistent AF patients were prospectively studied. Subjects were further stratified into three age groups (age group 1: younger than 65 years, age group 2: between 65 and 79 years old, and age group 3: older than 80 years). The two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging was carried out for analyzing the alterations in LA function underlying LA remodeling, whereas electroanatomic mapping was performed to investigate LA fibrosis burden. In animal study, aged mice and young mice served as research subjects. Echocardiography and histological staining were used to assess LA performance and fibrosis burden, respectively. Results: Echocardiography showed progressive increases in LA dimension and LA stiffness index, and progressive decreases in LA global longitudinal strain and LA strain rates with advancing age in both AF and control cohorts, which was more prominent in AF cohort. Electroanatomic mapping showed progressive decrease in mean LA voltage and progressive increases in LA surface area, low-voltage area %, and LA volume with advancing age, whereas more significant alterations were observed in AF patients. Moreover, left atrial global longitudinal strain was positively correlated with mean LA voltage, whereas LA stiffness index was negatively related to mean LA voltage. In animal experiment, increased LA size and pulmonary artery dimension as well as longer P-wave duration and more prominent LA fibrosis were found in aged mice. Conclusions: This study provides new evidence of subtle changes in structure and performance of left atrium and their association with atrial fibrosis in both AF and non-AF subjects during physiological aging. In addition, our study also provides normal values for LA structure and performance in both AF and non-AF conditions during aging. These measurements may provide an early marker for onset of AF and LA adverse remodeling.

Predictors of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter Hospitalization across 7 U.S. Emergency Departments: A Prospective Study

INTRODUCTION

International rates of hospitalization for atrial fibrillation and flutter (AFF) from the emergency department (ED) vary widely without clear evidence to guide the identification of high-risk patients requiring inpatient management. We sought to determine (1) variation in hospital admission and (2) modifiable factors associated with hospitalization of AFF patients within a U.S. integrated health system.

METHODS

This multicenter prospective observational study of health plan members with symptomatic AFF was conducted using convenience sampling in 7 urban community EDs from 05/2011 to 08/2012. Prospective data collection included presenting symptoms, characteristics of atrial dysrhythmia, ED physician impression of hemodynamic instability, comorbid diagnoses, ED management, and ED discharge rhythm. All centers had full-time on-call cardiology consultation available. Additional variables were extracted from the electronic health record. We identified factors associated with hospitalization and included predictors in a multivariate Poisson Generalized Estimating Equations regression model to estimate adjusted relative risks while accounting for clustering by physician.

RESULTS

Among 1,942 eligible AFF patients, 1,074 (55.3%) were discharged home and 868 (44.7%) were hospitalized. Hospitalization rates ranged from 37.4% to 60.4% across medical centers. After adjustment, modifiable factors associated with increased hospital admission from the ED included non-sinus rhythm at ED discharge, no attempted cardioversion, and heart rate reduction.

DISCUSSION

Within an integrated health system, we found significant variation in AFF hospitalization rates and identified several modifiable factors associated with hospital admission. Standardizing treatment goals that specifically address best practices for ED rate reduction and rhythm control may reduce hospitalizations.

Assessment of a Pharmacist-Led Direct Oral Anticoagulant Monitoring Clinic

BACKGROUND

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are recommended as first-line therapy for treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and prevention of stroke related to nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Recent publications have suggested incorporating DOAC monitoring into anticoagulant management clinics. The Eastern Health Adult Outpatient Thrombosis Service (Newfoundland and Labrador) includes a pharmacist-led DOAC monitoring clinic that uses standardized evidence-based care processes.

OBJECTIVES

To describe a new pharmacist-led DOAC monitoring clinic and to assess patients' adherence to medication therapy, adherence to guideline-recommended frequencies for blood work, and adverse and non-adverse events.

METHODS

This retrospective chart review involved patients who attended their first visit to the DOAC clinic between October 10, 2017, and May 31, 2018. Patients were followed until November 30, 2018. Data were abstracted from electronic hospital records and the provincial pharmacy network. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data: categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages; continuous variables were analyzed and presented as means with standard deviations and, where applicable, as medians with interquartile ranges.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients, who attended a total of 74 clinic visits, were included. Twenty-eight patients (60%) were adherent to their DOAC therapy. All patients had blood work completed before each clinic appointment. The mean time between the first and second sets of blood tests was 6.2 (standard deviation [SD] 1.4) months and between the second and third sets of blood tests was 5.1 (SD 1.0) months. There were no episodes of VTE or major bleeding. There was 1 cerebrovascular accident (3.2 events per 100 person-years, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2-15.7) and 5 episodes of clinically relevant non-major bleeding (12.8 events per 100 person-years, 95% CI 4.1-30.1). Pharmacists identified 51 issues at the clinic appointments, of which 48 were medication-related. Referral to the Thrombosis Service physician was required to resolve 8 (16%) of the issues identified. A brief discussion between the Thrombosis Service physician and pharmacist was required to resolve 30 (59%) of the issues, with 13 (25%) resolved by the pharmacist alone.

CONCLUSIONS

This study described the implementation and outcomes of a novel pharmacist-led DOAC clinic. Clinic patients underwent blood work at recommended intervals and received guidance on adherence and adverse events; as such, patients had follow-up that aligned with guideline recommendations.

Atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention: state of the art-epidemiology and pathophysiology: new risk factors, concepts and controversies

Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of thromboembolism, and risk assessment for thromboembolism is necessary for the management of AF patients. CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores have been adopted in international guidelines for AF management, but the significance of each risk factor included in these risk scores are sometimes controversial, and the performance of these scores is only modest. There are several other risk factors not included in the scores such as renal dysfunction, low body weight, type of AF (paroxysmal or non-paroxysmal) as well as echocardiographic parameters and blood biomarkers, and physicians should assess patients risk in an integrated manner.

Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) use and dosing in Canadian practice: Insights from the optimising pharmacotherapy in the management approach to lowering risk in atrial fibrillation (OPTIMAL AF) Programme

AIMS

To estimate the rate of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulant (NOAC) dosing that is lower- and higher-than-recommended and to describe the reasons for NOAC dose discordance with Health Canada prescribing information.

METHODS

The OPTIMAL AF Programme was an observational cohort quality assessment initiative in which primary and specialty care physicians in eight provinces provided a snapshot of their anticoagulated non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients through either an electronic medical record (EMR) system or standardised, paper-based data collection methods.

RESULTS

Data on 1681 NVAF patients receiving oral anticoagulation (OAC) for stroke prevention was provided by 102 physicians. A NOAC was prescribed in 1379 patients (8%). The standard recommended dose was prescribed in 849 (76%) and reduced dose in 264 (24%). Concordance of the reduced dose with Health Canada prescribing information occurred in 154 patients (58%). The standard dose was concordant in 805 (95%). The main reasons for the use of discordant reduced doses were age of 80 years or more, elevated creatinine, prior bleeding or dose recommended by specialist.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The vast majority of Canadian patients meeting the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) guideline recommendations for OAC to decrease AF-related stroke risk were receiving product monograph-concordant NOAC dosing (85%). Nonetheless, this highlights the fact that an important proportion of patients were prescribed doses that are discordant and opportunities remain to improve NOAC dosing to optimise stroke prevention.

Age threshold for anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation: A Swedish nationwide observational study

BACKGROUND

There is controversy as to whether patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and perceived low risk of cerebral infarction should be treated with anticoagulants, especially at what age a cut-off treatment might be indicated.

METHOD

We performed a retrospective, nationwide cohort study based on the Swedish National Patient Register and the Prescribed Drugs Register. Patients with a diagnosis of AF between July 1, 2005, and December 31, 2014, were included and divided into age categories (<55, 55-59, 60-64 and 65-74 years) and CHA₂DS₂-VA score of 0 and 1. Incidence rates (IR) of cerebral infarction and cerebral bleeding were calculated. Associations between outcomes from anticoagulant therapy and no therapy were calculated with Cox regression and given as hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

The analyzed cohort consisted of 294,470 patients. All age categories older than 55 years on anticoagulants had lower IR and HR for cerebral infarction compared to patients off anticoagulants, from HR 0.72, 95% CI (0.54-0.96) for patients 55-59 years with 0 points according to the CHA₂DS₂-VA score, to HR 0.37, 95% CI (0.33-0.42) for patients 65-74 years with 1 point. Anticoagulant therapy was associated to an increased risk of cerebral bleeding in three of seven categories, <55 years with 0 point, 55-59 years with 1 point, and 65-74 years with 1 point.

CONCLUSION

Anticoagulant therapy in patients with AF and age 55 years and older may be considered even if the patient has no other known risk factors for cerebral infarction.

Continued versus interrupted direct oral anticoagulation for cardiac electronic device implantation: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Many patients undergoing cardiac device implantation are taking direct oral anticoagulation (DOAC). Continuing DOAC during device implantation may increase periprocedural bleeding risk; however, interrupting DOACs may increase thromboembolic risk.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the incidence of clinically significant pocket hematoma and thromboembolism in patients who have their DOAC continued or interrupted for cardiac device implantation.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and randomized controlled trial (CENTRAL) until December 2019 and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies that compared outcomes after continuing or interrupting DOAC during cardiac device implantation. Independently and in duplicate, reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full text of potentially eligible studies. They then evaluated risk of bias and abstracted data. RCT data were pooled using a fixed-effect model. Quality of evidence was assessed using grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE).

RESULTS

Two RCTs, representing 763 patients, and three observational studies met eligibility criteria. In RCTs, continuing DOAC for device implantation compared to interrupting DOAC resulted in no significant difference in clinically significant pocket hematoma (2.1% vs 1.8%; RR 1.15; 95% CI 0.44-3.05) or thromboembolism (0.03% vs 0.03%; RR 1.02; 95% CI 0.06-16.21). Quality of evidence for both outcomes was moderate due to imprecision. Observational studies showed similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

Continuing DOACs for device implantation results in little to no difference in the incidence of clinically significant pocket hematoma or thromboembolism. Given the ease of stopping and restarting DOACs, interrupting DOACs may be the preferred strategy for most patients. However, whenever continuous therapeutic anticoagulation is desired, DOAC continuation should be preferred over bridging with parenteral anticoagulation.

Stroke prevention strategies in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation

Effective stroke prevention with oral anticoagulation (OAC) is the cornerstone of the management of patients with atrial fibrillation. The use of OAC reduces the risk of stroke and death. For most patients with atrial fibrillation without moderate or severe mitral valve stenosis or prosthetic mechanical heart valves, treatment options include vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Although most guidelines generally recommend NOACs as the first-line OAC, caution is required in some groups of patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke and bleeding who have been under-represented or not studied in the randomized clinical trials on NOACs for stroke prevention. In addition to OAC, non-pharmacological, percutaneous therapies, including left atrial appendage occlusion, for stroke prevention have emerged, sometimes used in combination with catheter ablation for the treatment of the atrial fibrillation. High-risk groups of patients with atrial fibrillation include patients with end-stage renal failure (including those receiving dialysis), extremely old patients (such as those aged >80 years with multiple risk factors for bleeding), patients with dementia or those living in a long-term care home, patients with previous intracranial bleeding or recent acute bleeding (such as gastrointestinal bleeding), patients with acute ischaemic stroke and patients with an intracardiac thrombus. This Review provides an overview of stroke prevention strategies, including left atrial appendage occlusion, in patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke and bleeding.

The 2020 Canadian Cardiovascular Society/Canadian Heart Rhythm Society Comprehensive Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) atrial fibrillation (AF) guidelines program was developed to aid clinicians in the management of these complex patients, as well as to provide direction to policy makers and health care systems regarding related issues. The most recent comprehensive CCS AF guidelines update was published in 2010. Since then, periodic updates were published dealing with rapidly changing areas. However, since 2010 a large number of developments had accumulated in a wide range of areas, motivating the committee to complete a thorough guideline review. The 2020 iteration of the CCS AF guidelines represents a comprehensive renewal that integrates, updates, and replaces the past decade of guidelines, recommendations, and practical tips. It is intended to be used by practicing clinicians across all disciplines who care for patients with AF. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) system was used to evaluate recommendation strength and the quality of evidence. Areas of focus include: AF classification and definitions, epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical evaluation, screening and opportunistic AF detection, detection and management of modifiable risk factors, integrated approach to AF management, stroke prevention, arrhythmia management, sex differences, and AF in special populations. Extensive use is made of tables and figures to synthesize important material and present key concepts. This document should be an important aid for knowledge translation and a tool to help improve clinical management of this important and challenging arrhythmia.

Thrombotic complications with interruption of direct oral anticoagulants in dermatologic surgery

BACKGROUND

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran, are increasingly being used to provide prophylaxis and treatment for arterial and venous thromboembolism. Multiple procedural subspecialties have implemented guidelines detailing time frames for perioperative DOAC interruption; however, the impact of perioperative DOAC interruption in patients undergoing dermatologic surgery is currently unknown, and evidence-based guidelines are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the 30-day postoperative rate of thrombotic complications (ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack, systemic embolism, deep vein thrombosis [DVT] and pulmonary embolism) in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) or a history of DVT who underwent perioperative DOAC interruption during dermatologic surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective medical record review was performed of all patients with AF or a history of DVT who underwent perioperative DOAC interruption during dermatologic surgery at Advanced Dermatologic Surgery and the University of Kansas Medical Center between January 1, 2016, and August 31, 2020.

RESULTS

Among 806 operations, comprising 750 Mohs micrographic operations (93.1%) and 56 excisions (6.9%), 1 patient (0.14% of patients with AF) sustained a transient ischemic attack and 2 patients (0.25% of all patients) sustained minor bleeding complications during the 30-day postoperative period.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative DOAC interruption appears to be safe and efficacious in dermatologic surgery.

Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke-Specific Focus on Anesthetic Management for Mechanical Thrombectomy

Acute ischemic stroke is a neurological emergency with a high likelihood of morbidity, mortality, and long-term disability. Modern stroke care involves multidisciplinary management by neurologists, radiologists, neurosurgeons, and anesthesiologists. Current American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) guidelines recommend thrombolytic therapy with intravenous (IV) alteplase within the first 3-4.5 hours of initial stroke symptoms and endovascular mechanical thrombectomy within the first 16-24 hours depending on specific inclusion criteria. The anesthesia and critical care provider may become involved for airway management due to worsening neurologic status or to enable computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning, to facilitate mechanical thrombectomy, or to manage critical care of stroke patients. Existing data are unclear whether the mechanical thrombectomy procedure is best performed under general anesthesia or sedation. Retrospective cohort trials favor sedation over general anesthesia, but recent randomized controlled trials (RCT) neither suggest superiority nor inferiority of sedation over general anesthesia. Regardless of anesthesia type, a critical element of intraprocedural stroke care is tight blood pressure management. At different phases of stroke care, different blood pressure targets are recommended. This narrative review will focus on the anesthesia and critical care providers' roles in the management of both perioperative stroke and acute ischemic stroke with a focus on anesthetic management for mechanical thrombectomy.