2016 Guidelines of the Taiwan Heart Rhythm Society and the Taiwan Society of Cardiology for the management of atrial fibrillation

The effect of antiarrhythmic medications on the risk of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

While current guidelines recommend amiodarone and dronedarone for rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and coronary artery disease (CAD), there was no comparative study of antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) on the cardiovascular outcomes in general practice.

METHODS

This study included patients with AF and CAD who received their first prescription of amiodarone, class Ic AADs (flecainide, propafenone), dronedarone or sotalol between January 2016 and December 2020. The primary outcome was a composite of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), stroke, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and cardiovascular death. We used Cox proportional regression models, including with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), to estimate the relationship between AADs and cardiovascular outcomes.

RESULTS

Among the AF cohort consisting of 8752 patients, 1996 individuals had CAD, including 477 who took dronedarone and 1519 who took other AADs. After a median follow-up of 38 months, 46.3% of patients who took dronedarone and 54.4% of patients who took other AADs experienced cardiovascular events. Compared to dronedarone, the use of other AADs was associated with increased cardiovascular events after adjusting for covariates (hazard ratio [HR] 1.531, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.112-2.141, p = 0.023) and IPTW (HR 1.491, 95% CI 1.174-1.992, p = 0.012). The secondary analysis showed that amiodarone and class Ic drugs were associated with an increased risk of HHF. The low number of subjects in the sotalol group limits data interpretation.

CONCLUSION

For patients with AF and CAD, dronedarone was associated with better cardiovascular outcomes than other AADs. Amiodarone and class Ic AADs were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, particularly HHF.

Number of Premature Ventricular Complexes Predicts Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) are common electrocardiographic abnormalities and may be a prognosticator in predicting mortality in patients with structurally normal hearts or chronic heart diseases. Whether PVC burden was associated with mortality in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) remained unknown. We investigated the prognostic value of PVC burden in patients with persistent AF.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 24 h Holter recordings of 1767 patients with persistent AF was conducted. Clinical characteristics, 24 h average heart rate (HR), and PVC measures, including 24 h PVC burden and the presence of consecutive PVCs (including any PVC couplet, triplet, or non-sustained ventricular tachycardia) were examined for the prediction of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up time of 30 months, 286 (16%) patients died and 1481 (84%) patients survived. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, heart failure, stroke, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, beta-blocker, digoxin, oral anticoagulant use, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were significant baseline predictors of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. Twenty-four-hour PVC burden and the presence of consecutive PVCs were significantly associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality after adjusting for significant clinical factors. When compared to the first quartile of PVC burden (<0.003%/day), the highest quartile (>0.3%/day) was significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.77-3.42) and cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio: 2.67; 95% CI, 1.76-4.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty-four-hour PVC burden is independently associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with persistent AF.

Dynamic assessment of CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores for predicting ischemic stroke and major bleeding in atrial fibrillation patients

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Stroke and bleeding risks in atrial fibrillation (AF) are often assessed at baseline to predict outcomes years later. We investigated whether dynamic changes in CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores over time modify risk prediction.

METHODS

We included patients with AF who were stable while taking vitamin K antagonists. During a 6-year follow-up, all ischemic strokes/transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and major bleeding events were recorded. CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED were recalculated every 2-years and tested for clinical outcomes at 2-year periods.

RESULTS

We included 1361 patients (mean CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED 4.0±1.7 and 2.9±1.2). During the follow-up, 156 (11.5%) patients had an ischemic stroke/TIA and 269 (19.8%) had a major bleeding event. Compared with the baseline CHA2DS2-VASc, the CHA2DS2-VASc recalculated at 2 years had higher predictive ability for ischemic stroke/TIA during the period from 2 to 4 years. Integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) and net reclassification improvement (NRI) showed improvements in sensitivity and better reclassification. The CHA2DS2-VASc recalculated at 4 years had better predictive performance than the baseline CHA2DS2-VASc during the period from 4 to 6 years, with an improvement in IDI and an enhancement of the reclassification. The recalculated HAS-BLED at 2-years had higher predictive ability than the baseline score for major bleeding during the period from 2 to 4 years, with significant improvements in sensitivity and reclassification. A slight enhancement in sensitivity was observed with the HAS-BLED score recalculated at 4 years compared with the baseline score.

CONCLUSIONS

In AF patients, stroke and bleeding risks are dynamic and change over time. The CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores should be regularly reassessed, particularly for accurate stroke risk prediction.

Higher Risk of Incident Hyperthyroidism in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been linked to increased hyperthyroidism risk, but contributing factors are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate whether AF could predict hyperthyroidism and related risk factors.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary medical institution and included patients aged 18 years or older with AF but without hyperthyroidism at diagnosis. The endpoint was defined as newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 8552 participants. Patients who developed new hyperthyroidism were younger and the proportion of females was higher. They had fewer comorbidities, including diabetes (26% vs 29%, P = .121), hypertension (51% vs 58%, P < .001), coronary artery disease (17% vs 25%, P < .001), stroke (16% vs 22%, P < .001), and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) (6% vs 10%, P = .001). The CHADS2 score was lower in patients with hyperthyroidism (1.74 vs 2.05, P = .031), but there was no statistically significant difference in the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED score. Cox regression analysis identified younger age, female gender, history of congestive heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, non-ESRD status, and lower CHADS2 score but not CHA2DS2-VASc as independent predictors of incident hyperthyroidism during follow-up. We also propose a novel, simple risk stratification score (SAD HEC2 score) with excellent predictive power for incident hyperthyroidism during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide insight into clinical risk factors for the development of hyperthyroidism in AF patients, as identified by the novel SAD HEC2 score. AF appears to be a common precursor of hyperthyroidism.

Beta-blockers reduce severe exacerbation in patients with mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with atrial fibrillation: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Beta-blockers (BBs) decrease mortality and acute exacerbation (AE) rates in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease; however, information on their effects in patients with COPD and atrial fibrillation (AF) is limited. We aimed to assess the AE risk in patients with different severities of COPD and AF receiving BBs compared with that in patients receiving calcium channel blockers (CCBs).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database from 2009 to 2018. Outcomes included AE-related emergency room visits and hospitalisation. HRs and 95% CIs were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards model. COPD severity was classified as mild or severe based on exacerbation history. Sensitivity analyses included treatment and subgroup analyses, and competing risk adjustment.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, 4486 pairs of BB and CCB users from 13 462 eligible patients were included. The exacerbation risk for BB users was lower (HR 0.80; 95% CI 0.72 to 0.89) than that of CCB users. After stratification, BB benefits persisted in the mild COPD group (HR 0.75; 95% CI 0.66 to 0.85), unlike the severe COPD group (HR 0.95; 95% CI 0.75 to 1.20). The results of the subgroup analysis showed consistent protective effects even in patients without heart failure or myocardial infarction (adjusted HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.71 to 0.94).

CONCLUSION

We found that BB use in patients with mild COPD and AF was associated with a lower exacerbation risk than CCB use, and that close monitoring of BB use in patients with severe COPD and AF is warranted.

Breathless nights and heart flutters: Understanding the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and atrial fibrillation

There is an extraordinary and increasing global burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), two conditions that frequently accompany one another and that share underlying risk factors. Whether a causal pathophysiologic relationship connects OSA to the development and/or progression of AF, or whether shared risk factors promote both conditions, is unproven. With increasing recognition of the importance of controlling AF-related risk factors, numerous observational studies now highlight the potential benefits of OSA treatment in AF-related outcomes. Physicians are regularly faced with caring for this important and increasing population of patients despite a paucity of clinical guidance on the topic. Here, we review the clinical epidemiology and pathophysiology of AF and OSA with a focus on key clinical studies and major outstanding questions that should be addressed in future studies.

Shared decision making for anticoagulation reduces anxiety and improves adherence in patients with atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Treatment with oral anticoagulants (OACs) could prevent stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF), but side effects developed due to OACs may cause patients anxiety during decision making. This study aimed to investigate whether shared decision making (SDM) reduces anxiety and improves adherence to stroke prevention measures in patients with AF.

METHODS

A one-group pretest-posttest design using a questionnaire survey was applied at the outpatient cardiology clinic between July 2019 until September 2020. A Patient Decision Aid (PDA) tool was used for the completion of the questionnaire survey after health education and counseling. Ten questions were included for patients' recognition of SDM, and a 5-point scoring method was used, where "very much" was scored as 5 points, and "totally not" was scored as 1 point.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients with AF were enrolled. In terms of patients' recognition of SDM, points of more than 4.17 out of 5 were noted, indicating recognition above the level of "very much." The patients' anxiety scores before SDM were 3.56 (1.2), with a decrease of 0.64 points (p < 0.001) to 2.92 (1.3) after SDM. After SDM, the number of patients who decided to take OAC increased from 76.9% to 88.5%, and the 15.4% answering "unclear" decreased to 1.9% (p = 0.006). The patients' anxiety levels after SDM were associated with gender (p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

The approach using SDM enhanced our understanding of the pros and cons of OAC treatment and, in patients with AF, decreased anxiety about therapeutic decisions and increased willingness to accept treatment options.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor Prevents Stroke in Patients With Diabetes and Atrial Fibrillation

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increasing risk of thromboembolic or ischemic stroke. The CHA₂DS₂-VASc score is a well-established predictor of AF stroke. Patients with AF have an increased risk of stroke if they have diabetes. Use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) has been shown to be associated with favorable cardiovascular outcomes in patients with diabetes. It was unknown whether use of SGLT2i decreased stroke risk in patients with AF who have diabetes. Methods and Results A total of 9116 patients with AF and diabetes from the National Taiwan University historical cohort were longitudinally followed up for 5 years (January 2016-December 2020). The risk of stroke related to SGLT2i use was evaluated by Cox model, adjusting CHA₂DS₂-VASc score in the propensity score-matched population with 474 SGLT2i users and 3235 nonusers. Adverse thromboembolic end points during follow-up were defined as ischemic stroke. The mean age was 73.2±10.5 years, and 61% of patients were men. There were no significant differences of baseline characteristics between users and nonusers of SGLT2i, including CHA₂DS₂-VASc score in the propensity score-matched population. The stroke rate was 3.4% (95% CI, 2.8-4.2) patient-years in SGLT2i users and 4.3% (95% CI, 4.0-4.6) in nonusers (P=0.021). SGLT2i users had a 20% reduction of stroke (hazard ratio, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.64-0.99]; P=0.043) after adjustment for the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score. Conclusions Use of SGLT2i was associated with a lower stroke risk in patients with diabetes and AF, and it may be considered to escalate SGLT2i to the first-line treatment in patients with diabetes and AF.

Clinical decision support to Optimize Care of patients with Atrial Fibrillation or flutter in the Emergency department: protocol of a stepped-wedge cluster randomized pragmatic trial (O'CAFÉ trial)

BACKGROUND

Management of adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter in the emergency department (ED) includes rate reduction, cardioversion, and stroke prevention. Different approaches to these components of care may lead to variation in frequency of hospitalization and stroke prevention actions, with significant implications for patient experience, cost of care, and risk of complications. Standardization using evidence-based recommendations could reduce variation in management, preventable hospitalizations, and stroke risk.

METHODS

We describe the rationale for our ED-based AF treatment recommendations. We also describe the development of an electronic clinical decision support system (CDSS) to deliver these recommendations to emergency physicians at the point of care. We implemented the CDSS at three pilot sites to assess feasibility and solicit user feedback. We will evaluate the impact of the CDSS on hospitalization and stroke prevention actions using a stepped-wedge cluster randomized pragmatic clinical trial across 13 community EDs in Northern California.

DISCUSSION

We hypothesize that the CDSS intervention will reduce hospitalization of adults with isolated AF or atrial flutter presenting to the ED and increase anticoagulation prescription in eligible patients at the time of ED discharge and within 30 days. If our hypotheses are confirmed, the treatment protocol and CDSS could be recommended to other EDs to improve management of adults with AF or atrial flutter.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05009225 .  Registered on 17 August 2021.

Surgical volume and outcomes of surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation: a nationwide population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrythmia and causes many complications. Sinus rhythm restoration could reduce late mortality of atrial fibrillation patients. The Maze procedure is the gold standard for surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation. Higher surgical volume has been documented with favorable outcomes of various cardiac procedures such as mitral valve surgery and aortic valve replacement. We aimed to determine the volume-outcome relationship (i.e., association between surgical volume and outcomes) for the concomitant Maze procedure during major cardiac surgeries.

METHODS

This nationwide population-based cohort study retrieved data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Adult patients undergoing concomitant Maze procedures during 2010-2017 were identified; consequently, 2666 patients were classified into four subgroups based on hospital cumulative surgery volumes. In-hospital outcomes and late outcomes during follow-up were analyzed. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model were used to analyze the volume-outcome relationship.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing Maze procedures at lower-volume hospitals tended to be frailer and had higher comorbidity scores. Patients in the highest-volume hospitals had a lower risk of in-hospital mortality than those in the lowest-volume hospitals [adjusted odds ratio, 0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.15-0.61; P < 0.001]. Patients in the highest-volume hospitals had lower rates of late mortality than those in the lowest-volume hospitals, including all-cause mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.53; 95% CI 0.40-0.68; P < 0.001] and all-cause mortality after discharge (aHR 0.60; 95% CI 0.44-0.80; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A positive hospital volume-outcome relationship for concomitant Maze procedures was demonstrated for in-hospital and late follow-up mortality. The consequence may be attributed to physician skill/experience, experienced multidisciplinary teams, and comprehensive care processes. We suggest referring patients with frailty or those requiring complicated cardiac surgeries to high-volume hospitals to improve clinical outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

the institutional review board of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital approved all data usage and the study protocol (registration number: 202100151B0C502).

Associations of Warfarin Use with Risks of Ischemic Cerebrovascular Events and Major Bleeding in Patients with Hyperthyroidism-Related Atrial Fibrillation

The use of oral anticoagulants for patients with new-onset hyperthyroidism-related atrial fibrillation (AF) is controversial. We aimed to evaluate the clinical benefits of warfarin therapy in this population. This retrospective cohort study used a data-cut of Taiwan Health and Welfare Database between 2000 and 2016. We compared warfarin users and nonusers among AF patients with hyperthyroidism. We used 1:2 propensity score matching to balance covariates and Cox regression model to calculate hazard ratios (HRs). The primary outcome was risk of ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), and the secondary outcome was major bleeding. After propensity score matching, we defined 90 and 168 hyperthyroidism-related AF patients with mean (SD) age of 59.9 ± 13.5 and 59.2 ± 14.6 in the warfarin-treated group and untreated group separately. The mean (SD) CHA2DS2-VASc scores for the two groups were 2.1 ± 1.6 and 1.8 ± 1.5, respectively. Patients with hyperthyroidism-related AF receiving warfarin had no significant risk of ischemic stroke/TIA (adjusted HR: 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-2.56, p = 0.717) compared to nonusers. There was a comparable risk of major bleeding between those receiving warfarin or not (adjusted HR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.56-1.47, p = 0.702). The active-comparator design also demonstrated that warfarin use had no significant association with the risk of stroke/TIA versus aspirin use (adjusted HR: 2.43; 95% CI: 0.68-8.70). In conclusion, anticoagulation therapy did not have a statistically significant benefit on ischemic stroke/TIA nor risk of bleeding, among patients with new-onset hyperthyroidism-related AF under a low CHA2DS2-VASc score, by comparing those without use.

Obstructive sleep apnea and its management in patients with atrial fibrillation: An International Collaboration of Sleep Apnea Cardiovascular Trialists (INCOSACT) global survey of practicing cardiologists

Background

Among international cardiologists it is unclear whether equipoise exists regarding the benefit of diagnosing and managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to improve atrial fibrillation (AF) outcomes and whether clinical practice and equipoise are linked.

Methods

Between January 2019 and June 2020 we distributed a web-based 12-question survey regarding OSA and AF management to practicing cardiologists in 16 countries.

Results

The United States, Japan, Sweden, and Turkey accounted for two-thirds of responses. 863 cardiologists responded; half were general cardiologists, a quarter electrophysiologists. Responses regarding treating OSA with CPAP to improve AF endpoints were mixed. 33% of respondents referred AF patients for OSA screening. OSA was diagnosed in 48% of referred patients and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was prescribed for 59% of them. Nearly 70% of respondents believed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of OSA treatment in AF patients were necessary and indicated willingness to contribute to such trials.

Conclusions

There was no clinical equipoise among surveyed cardiologists; a majority expressed certainty that combined OSA and AF treatment is superior to AF treatment alone for improving AF outcomes. However, a minority of surveyed cardiologists referred AF patients for OSA testing, and while half of screened AF patients had OSA, CPAP was prescribed in little more than half of them, reflecting the view that better clinical trial evidence is needed to support this practice. Our results underscore the need for larger, multi-national prospective studies of OSA treatment and AF outcomes to inform more uniform society guideline recommendations.

Clinical outcomes and structural remodelling after ablation of atrial fibrillation in heart failure with mildly reduced or mid-range ejection fraction

AIMS

The efficacy of catheter ablation (CA) on clinical outcomes and cardiac structural remodelling in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with HF with mildly reduced or mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) remains unclear. We aimed to compare the efficacy of CA with medical therapy (MT) in AF patients with HFmrEF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We retrospectively screened a total of 36 879 patients with AF between 2005 and 2020. Patients who were initially diagnosed with echocardiography-proved HFmrEF and had follow-up echocardiography were enrolled. After applying propensity score matching in a 1:1 ratio, 72 patients treated by CA (Group 1) and 72 patients receiving MT (Group 2) were taken into further analysis. The co-morbidities were similar between the two groups, except for hyperlipidaemia. After a mean follow-up duration of 58.9 ± 42.6 months, Group 1 had a lower HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality compared with Group 2 (hazard ratio (HR), 0.089 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.011-0.747]; P = 0.026 and HR, 0.121 [95% CI, 0.016-0.894]; P = 0.038, respectively). As for cardiac structural remodelling, the Group 1 had a better improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and a more decreased left atrium (LA) diameter than Group 2 (+25.0% ± 18.0% vs. +6.2% ± 21.6%, P = <0.0001 and -1.6 ± 4.7 mm vs. +1.5 ± 8.2 mm, P = 0.008, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with HFmrEF and AF, CA of AF could reduce both HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality as compared with those with MT. A significant improvement in LVEF and decrease in LA diameter were also observed in the CA group. Early rhythm control with CA should be taken into consideration in patients with HFmrEF and AF.

Peri-device leakage not CHA2DS2-VASc is associated with post-left atrial appendage closure cardiovascular event

OBJECTIVE

In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), the left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) is an alternative treatment for stroke prevention. However, thromboembolic event still occur, and the predictors are unknown.

METHODS

The first Asian long-term follow-up study consisted of 308 patients with mean age 71.9±9.5 years, mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc 4.1 ± 1.8 since 2013. Primary outcome was defined as any type of ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), systemic embolization and cardiovascular death.

RESULTS

There was no procedural-related TIA or stroke. After a mean follow-up of 38±16 months, the ischemic stroke/TIA rate was 1.9 and cardiovascular death rate 0.3 per 100 patient-year. The rate of peri-device leak (PDL) was 11.9% and device-related thrombus (DRT) 2.6%. In the multivariable analyses, PDL was the only independent predictor of stroke/TIA (hazard ratio 5.5, p=0.008). CHA₂DS₂-VASc score, prior history of stroke, DRT and post-procedural anti-thrombotic regimen/duration were not associated with outcomes. Implantation of Watchman was associated with PDL (odds ratio 4.35, p=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PDL is the only independent predictor of post-LAAO stroke. The risk of stroke for patients with NVAF may be controllable after LAA is occluded, because PDL is preventable and treatable.

Long-Term Study on Therapeutic Strategy for Treatment of Eisenmenger Syndrome Patients: A Case Series Study

Eisenmenger syndrome (ES) refers to congenital heart diseases (CHD) with reversal flow associated with increased pulmonary pressure and irreversible pulmonary vascular remodeling. Previous reports showed limited therapeutic strategies in ES. In this study, 5 ES patients (2 males and 3 females), who had been followed regularly at our institution from 2010 to 2019, were retrospectively reviewed. We adopted an add-on combination of sildenafil, bosentan, and iloprost and collected the clinical characteristics and outcomes as well as findings of echocardiography, computed tomography, pulmonary perfusion-ventilation scans, positron emission tomography, and biomarkers. The age of diagnosis in these ES patients ranged from 23 to 54 years (38.2 ± 11.1 years; mean ± standard deviation), and they were followed for 7 to 17 years. Their mean pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance index were 56.4 ± 11.3 mmHg and 24.7 ± 8.5 WU.m², respectively. Intrapulmonary arterial thrombosis was found in 4 patients, ischemic stroke was noted in 2 patients, and increased glucose uptake of the right ventricle was observed in 4 patients. No patient mortality was seen within 5 years of follow-up. Subsequently, 2 patients died of right ventricular failure, 1 died of sepsis related to brain abscess, and another died of sudden death. The life span of these patients was 44–62 years. Although these patients showed longer survival, the beneficial data on specific-target pharmacologic interventions in ES is still preliminary. Thus, larger trials are warranted, and the study of cardiac remodeling in ES from various CHD should be explored.

Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation: A Scientific Statement of JACC: Asia (Part 1)

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with substantial increases in the risk of stroke and systemic thromboembolism. With the successful introduction of the first non-vitamin K antagonist direct oral anticoagulant (NOAC) in 2009, the role of vitamin K antagonists has been replaced in most clinical settings except in a few conditions when NOACs are contraindicated. Data for the use of NOACs in different clinical scenarios have been accumulating in the recent decade, and a more sophisticated strategy for atrial fibrillation patients is now warranted. JACC: Asia recently appointed a working group to summarize the most updated information regarding stroke prevention in AF. This statement aimed to provide possible treatment option in daily practice. Local availability, cost, and patient comorbidities should also be considered. Final decisions may still need to be individualized and based on clinicians' discretion. This is the part 1 of the whole statement.

Efficacy of a Health Belief Model-Based Intervention for Anticoagulant Adherence in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Evidence supports anticoagulants' efficacy in reducing the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, poor anticoagulant adherence increases the risks of stroke and bleeding.Aim: The study aims to test the efficacy of a health belief model-based intervention for improving the primary outcome, adherence to anticoagulant therapy, and the secondary outcomes, knowledge, beliefs, and self-efficacy of anticoagulant therapy.Methods: The study is a parallel randomized trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio. A convenience sample of 72 patients treated with anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation was recruited from cardiology clinics in Taiwan. They were randomly assigned to either the control or intervention groups. The health belief model-based intervention comprises a 60-minute individual face-to-face instruction and six follow-up telephone calls. A blinded outcome assessor collected self-report data from both groups at baseline (T1), 12th week (T2), and 24th week (T3).Results: A generalized estimating equation showed significant group-by-time interaction effects on both adherence to and knowledge of anticoagulant therapy. The intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in adherence (ß = -1.25, 95% CI: -2.46 to -0.04) and knowledge (ß = 17.93, 95% CI: 4.63–31.23) across the three time points than the control group did. However, there was no significant between-group difference in self-efficacy, perceived benefit, or perceived barriers to adherence.Conclusion: The study results support the intervention's efficacy on improving adherence to and knowledge of anticoagulant therapy among patients with atrial fibrillation, but no effect on other essential concepts health belief model.

XaMINA: A Real-World, Prospective, Observational Study of Treatment-Naïve Patients Treated with Rivaroxaban for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation in Asia

INTRODUCTION

The efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism have been demonstrated in Asian and non-Asian patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) in multiple studies. However, limited published data exist on its use specifically in treatment-naïve patients from the Asia region. Patients in South Korea and Taiwan can now receive rivaroxaban as first-line therapy, allowing for data generation in this patient group.

METHODS

XaMINA was a prospective, real-world, multicenter, single-arm, observational cohort study of patients with NVAF in South Korea and Taiwan naïve to anticoagulation and initiating rivaroxaban. The primary outcome was major bleeding; secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality, symptomatic thromboembolic events, and treatment persistence.

RESULTS

In total, 1094 patients were included and the follow-up was 1 year. The baseline mean CHADS₂ score was 1.63 ± 0.98, mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc score was 2.92 ± 1.42, and mean HAS-BLED score was 1.00 ± 0.75. The primary outcome occurred in 20 (1.8%) patients [incidence rate 2.1 events per 100 patient-years (95% CI 1.35-3.25)]. Thromboembolic events occurred in 9 (0.8%) patients, of whom 5 (0.5%) had stroke, 3 (0.3%) myocardial infarction, and 1 (0.1%) a transient ischemic attack. There were no cases of non-central nervous system systemic embolism, and 735 (67.2%) patients persisted with rivaroxaban treatment for 1 year.

CONCLUSION

XaMINA demonstrated low incidence rates of major bleeding events and thromboembolic events in patients with NVAF newly initiating rivaroxaban in South Korea and Taiwan, consistent with previous real-world studies reconfirming the results of the ROCKET AF study.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier NCT03284762) on 15 September 2017.

Stroke and Systemic Thromboembolism according to CHA2DS2-VASc Score in Contemporary Korean Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

PURPOSE

The incidence of stroke and/or systemic thromboembolism (SSE) has not been properly evaluated in well-anticoagulated atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. This study investigated the incidence of SSE according to CHA₂DS₂-VASc score in contemporary well-anticoagulated Korean AF patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From the prospective multicenter COmparison study of Drugs for symptom control and complication prEvention of Atrial Fibrillation (CODE-AF) registry, we identified 9503 patients with non-valvular AF (mean age, 68±8 years; female 35.5%) enrolled between June 2016 and May 2020 with eligible follow-up visits. Stroke incidence in the CODE-AF registry was compared with that in an oral anticoagulant (OAC)-naïve AF cohort from the Korean National Health Insurance database.

RESULTS

The usage rates of OACs and antiplatelet agents were 73.5% (non-vitamin K OACs, 56.4%; warfarin, 17.1%) and 23.8%, respectively. During a mean follow-up period of 26.3±9.6 months, 163 (0.78 per 100 person-years) patients had SSE. The incidence rate (per 100 person-years) of SSE was 0.77 in the total population, 0.26 in low-risk patients [CHA₂DS₂-VASc score 0 (male) or 1 (female)], and 0.88 in high-risk patients (CHA₂DS₂-VASc score ≥2). Contemporary AF patients had a stroke rate that was about one-fifth the stroke rate reported in a Korean OAC-naïve AF cohort. In this cohort, most risk factors for CHA₂DS₂-VASc score showed significant associations with SSE. Female sex was not associated with an increased risk of stroke/SSE in well-anticoagulated AF patients.

CONCLUSION

Contemporary AF patients have a stroke rate about one-fifth that in OAC-naïve AF patients and exhibit different stroke risk factors.

STUDY REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02786095).

Impact of recording length and other arrhythmias on atrial fibrillation detection from wrist photoplethysmogram using smartwatches

This study aimed to evaluate whether quantitative analysis of wrist photoplethysmography (PPG) could detect atrial fibrillation (AF). Continuous electrocardiograms recorded using an electrophysiology recording system and PPG obtained using a wrist-worn smartwatch were simultaneously collected from patients undergoing catheter ablation or electrical cardioversion. PPG features were extracted from 10, 25, 40, and 80 heartbeats of the split segments. Machine learning with a support vector machine and random forest approach were used to detect AF. A total of 116 patients were evaluated. We annotated > 117 h of PPG. A total of 6475 and 3957 segments of 25-beat pulse-to-pulse intervals (PPIs) were annotated as AF and sinus rhythm, respectively. The accuracy of the 25 PPIs yielded a test area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.9676, which was significantly better than the AUC for the 10 PPIs (0.9453; P < .001). PPGs obtained from another 38 patients with frequent premature ventricular/atrial complexes (PVCs/PACs) were used to evaluate the impact of other arrhythmias on diagnostic accuracy. The new AF detection algorithm achieved an AUC of 0.9680. The appropriate data length of PPG for optimizing the PPG analytics program was 25 heartbeats. Algorithm modification using a machine learning approach shows robustness to PVCs/PACs.

Post-Intracranial Hemorrhage Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

Background

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of withholding or restarting antithrombotic agents, and different antithrombotic therapies among patients with atrial fibrillation post‐intracranial hemorrhage.

Methods and Results

This is a nationwide retrospective cohort study involving patients with atrial fibrillation receiving antithrombotic therapies who subsequently developed intracranial hemorrhage between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2017. The risk of ischemic stroke (IS), recurrent intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and all‐cause mortality were investigated between patients receiving no treatment versus patients reinitiating oral anticoagulants (OACs) or antiplatelet agents, and warfarin versus non‐vitamin K antagonist OACs. We applied inverse probability of treatment weighting to balance the baseline characteristics and Cox proportional hazards model to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) of different outcomes of interest. Compared with no treatment, OACs reduced the risk of IS (HR, 0.61; 0.42–0.89), without increase in the risk of ICH (1.15, 0.66–2.02); antiplatelet agent users showed a similar risk of IS (1.13, 0.81–1.56) and increased risk of ICH (1.81, 1.07–3.04). Use of OACs or antiplatelet agents did not reduce the risk of all‐cause mortality (0.85, 0.72–1.01; and 0.88, 0.75–1.03, respectively). Compared with warfarin, non‐vitamin K antagonist OAC users showed a similar risk of IS (0.92, 0.50–1.70), non‐significantly reduced risk of ICH (0.53, 0.22–1.30), and significantly reduced all‐cause mortality (0.60, 0.43–0.84).

Conclusions

OACs are recommended in patients with atrial fibrillation and intracranial hemorrhage because they reduced the risk of IS with no increase in the risk of subsequent ICH. Non‐vitamin K antagonist OACs are recommended over warfarin owing to their survival benefits.

Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of Direct Oral Anticoagulants and Vitamin K Antagonists in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Concomitant Liver Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have a higher risk of developing thromboembolic events. Current guidelines recommend the use of oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in these patients. Several clinical trials demonstrated that direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have similar efficacy and are safer alternatives to traditional oral anticoagulants. However, patients with concomitant liver cirrhosis were excluded from these trials.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to systematically identify and review published clinical studies on the use of DOACs in patients with AF and liver cirrhosis and assess the efficacy and safety of DOACs in these patients.

METHODS

A systematic review of clinical trials and retrospective studies was conducted by searching the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases up to September 2020.

RESULTS

Three retrospective studies were included, involving 4011 patients with AF and liver cirrhosis. The use of DOACs was associated with a significant reduction in ischemic stroke (hazard ratio [HR] 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.90; p = 0.01), major bleeding events (HR 0.64; 95% CI 0.57-0.72; p < 0.001), and intracranial hemorrhage (HR 0.49; 95% CI 0.40-0.59; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with warfarin in patients with AF and liver cirrhosis, DOACs appear to be associated with improved efficacy and safety outcomes. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.

Critical Appraisal of Guidelines for Antithrombotic Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation Post-Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Objective:

In our present study, our objective was to appraise guidelines on antithrombotic therapy in atrial fibrillation post-percutaneous coronary intervention and to explore the differences in treatment practices for better informed decision-making.

Methods:

We searched for English language guidelines published between January 2000 and December 2020 at MEDLINE, Embase and websites of guideline organizations. Guidelines with recommendations on antithrombotic regimens for patients with AF undergoing PCI were included. Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument was applied to assess guidelines. The reporting of conflicts of interest (COI) was evaluated separately by the RIGHT (Reporting Item for Practice Guidelines in Healthcare) checklist as supplementary items.

Results:

Sixteen guidelines were included, among which 13 (81.25%) were considered as ‘recommended’ and 1 (6.25%) as ‘unrecommended.’ The average scores of guidelines ranged from 55% to 88% (<60% as low quality, 60–70% as sufficient quality, and >70% as good quality). Among the 6 domains of AGREE II, scope and purpose (84%) and editorial independence(87%) were considered to be the fields in which CPGs performed best, evidenced by the highest mean AGREE II scores. The domains in which the reviewed CPGs received the lowest mean scores were stakeholder involvement (63%) and applicability (58%). The intraclass correlation coefficient scores were excellent in each domain. The overall quality of the selected CPGs was optimal, with the highest score in domain ‘scope and purpose’, and the lowest score in the domain ‘applicability.’ The reporting of COI was satisfactory.

Conclusions:

For the recommendations on antithrombotic strategies, guidelines with high AGREE II scores still exist discrepancy on the timing and selection. Current guidance documents on the treatment vary in methodological rigor and recommendations are not always consistent.

Exploratory Evaluation of Rhythm Control by Dronedarone in Combination With Low-Dose Rivaroxaban, Warfarin, Antiplatelet, or None of the Antithrombotic Therapy in High-Risk Patients With Non-Permanent Atrial Fibrillation: A Retrospective Cohort Study

The emerging data supports rhythm control to prevent major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Limited data demonstrated rivaroxaban 10 mg combining dronedarone seemed feasible. This study aimed at investigating clinical events in a dronedarone-treated cohort. This exploratory, retrospective chart review was conducted in nonpermanent AF patients receiving dronedarone for ≥ 3 months between 2009/1 and 2016/2. In Taiwan, dronedarone's labeled indication was strict to age ≥ 70 or 65 to 70 years with either hypertension, diabetes, prior stroke, or left atrium >50 mm. We divided all into 4 groups using antithrombotic strategies to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and MACE endpoints. A total of 689 patients (mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc score 3.8 ± 1.4) were analyzed: rivaroxaban 10 mg (n = 93, 13.5%), warfarin (n = 89, 12.9%), antiplatelet (n = 331, 48.0%), and none (n = 176, 25.5%). During the follow-up period (mean 946 ± 493.8 days), the rivaroxaban group did not report any stroke or thromboembolism (ishcmeic stroke rate: antiplatelet [0.6%], none [1.1%]; hemorrahgic stroke rate: warfarin [2.2%]; thromboembolism rate: warfarin [2.2%]). There was no significant difference in safety, effectiveness, and MACE endpoints between groups. Also, >104 weeks of dronedarone use was the independent predictor for MACE after adjusting the strategy and other covariates (hazard ratio 0.14 [95% confidence interval 0.04-0.44], P = .001). Our findings warrant concomitant rivaroxaban 10 mg and dronedarone for further investigation. Regardless of antithrombotic strategies, a more extended persistence of dronedarone was associated with fewer MACE.

The risk of stroke after acute myocardial infarction in patients with and without atrial fibrillation: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are risk factors for stroke. The risk of stroke after AMI may differ between patients with and without AF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of AF on stroke in patients after the first AMI.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, nationwide cohort study. Patients with a primary diagnosis of a first AMI between 2000 and 2012 were included. All patients were followed up until ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), or December 31, 2012, whichever occurred first. Kaplan-Meier cumulative survival curves were constructed to compare ischemic stroke or TIA between AMI patients with and without AF.

RESULTS

A total of 170 472 patients were enrolled in this study. Among them, 8530 patients with AF were identified. The propensity score matching technique was used to match 8530 patients without AF of similar ages and sexes. Overall, the 12-year stroke rate was significantly higher in patients with AF than in those without AF (log-rank p < 0.001), including different sexes, ages, and interventional therapy subgroups. Patients with pre-existing AF had higher stroke rates than those with newly diagnosed AF in male sex, age below 65 years, and those receiving interventional therapy subgroups. In Cox proportional-hazard regression analysis, AF was an independent risk factor for stroke after the first AMI (hazard ratio, 1.67; 95% CI: 1.5-1.87).

CONCLUSION

AF significantly increases stroke risk after the first AMI. In patients with AF, those with pre-existing AF have higher stroke risks in male sex, age below 65 years, and those with interventional therapy than those with newly diagnosed AF.

2021 Focused update of the 2017 consensus guidelines of the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS) on stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

The consensus of the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS) on stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) has been published in 2017 which provided useful clinical guidance for cardiologists, neurologists, geriatricians, and general practitioners in Asia-Pacific region. In these years, many important new data regarding stroke prevention in AF were reported. The Practice Guidelines subcommittee members comprehensively reviewed updated information on stroke prevention in AF, and summarized them in this 2021 focused update of the 2017 consensus guidelines of the APHRS on stroke prevention in AF. We highlighted and focused on several issues, including the importance of AF Better Care (ABC) pathway, the advantages of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for Asians, the considerations of use of NOACs for Asian patients with AF with single 1 stroke risk factor beyond gender, the role of lifestyle factors on stroke risk, the use of oral anticoagulants during the "coronavirus disease 2019" (COVID-19) pandemic, etc. We fully realize that there are gaps, unaddressed questions, and many areas of uncertainty and debate in the current knowledge of AF, and the physician's decision remains the most important factor in the management of AF.

Long-term outcomes of percutaneous left atrial appendage closure for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation: Asia-Pacific experience

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), the left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) is an alternative treatment for stroke prevention. However, the long-term outcomes in Asia was generally unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a retrospective longitudinal study and a total of 124 patients with contraindications to oral anticoagulants or stroke despite under anticoagulants had been enrolled since 2013. Primary efficacy was defined as any type of stroke/systemic embolization and adverse event as any procedure or anti-thrombotic related complications. Twelve patients were excluded due to thrombus in the LAA or oversize LAA. Watchman was successfully implanted in 55 patients (98%) and ACP/Amulet also 55 patients (98%). During follow-up, the ischemic stroke rate was 1.9 in the Watchman and 1.4 per 100 patient-year in the ACP/Amulet group. There were 2 Watchman patients experiencing intracranial hemorrhage. Device-related thrombus (DRT) was noted in 3 patients (2.7%).There was no patient with peri-device lead ≧5 mm. In those patients receiving only local anesthesia, the follow-up echocardiography showed no significant peri-device leak, malposition of LAAO and DRT.

CONCLUSION

This long-term follow-up study shows that percutaneous closure of LAA is a safe and technically feasible procedure with satisfactory outcomes in Asia. The procedure success rate, efficacy and adverse event were similar to those reported in the Caucasian populations.

A Web-Based Integrated Management Program for Improving Medication Adherence and Quality of Life, and Reducing Readmission in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is related to a variety of chronic diseases and life-threatening complications. It is estimated that by 2050, there will be 72 million patients with AF in Asia, of which 2.9 million will have AF-associated stroke. AF has become a major issue for health care systems.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the effects of a web-based integrated management program on improving coping strategies, medication adherence, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with AF, and to detect the effect on decreasing readmission events.

METHODS

The parallel-group, single-blind, prospective randomized controlled trial recruited patients with AF from a medical center in northern Taiwan and divided them randomly into intervention and control groups. Patients in the intervention group received the web-based integrated management program, whereas those in the control group received usual care. The measurement tools included the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) scale, Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS), the three-level version of the EuroQoL five-dimension self-report questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L), and readmission events 2 years after initiating the intervention. Data were collected at 4 instances (baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after initiating the intervention), and analyzed with generalized estimating equations (GEEs).

RESULTS

A total of 231 patients were recruited and allocated into an intervention (n=115) or control (n=116) group. The mean age of participants was 73.08 (SD 11.71) years. Most participants were diagnosed with paroxysmal AF (171/231, 74%), and the most frequent comorbidity was hypertension (162/231, 70.1%). Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in approach coping strategies, medication adherence, and HRQoL at 1, 3, and 6 months (all P<.05). In addition, the intervention group showed significantly fewer readmission events within 2 years (OR 0.406, P=.03), compared with the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The web-based integrated management program can significantly improve patients' coping strategy and medication adherence. Therefore, it can empower patients to maintain disease stability, which is a major factor in improving their HRQoL and reducing readmission events within 2 years.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04813094; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04813094.

2021 Consensus Pathway of the Taiwan Society of Cardiology on Novel Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a major threat to human health in the 21st century. More than half a billion people may suffer from this pandemic disease in 2030, leading to a huge burden of cardiovascular complications. Recently, 2 novel antidiabetic agents, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, reduced cardiovascular complications in a number of randomized control trials. To integrate new information and to achieve a streamlined process for better patient care, a working group was appointed by the Taiwan Society of Cardiology to formulate a stepwise consensus pathway for these therapies to reduce cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. This consensus pathway is complementary to clinical guidelines, acting as a reference to improve patient care.

The information needs of patients with atrial fibrillation: A scoping review

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To identify the atrial fibrillation (AF)-specific information needs of patients with AF.

BACKGROUND

Patients' understanding of AF is pertinent to optimising treatment and outcomes, thus highlighting the need for effective patient education. The information required to deliver effective AF-specific patient education is less examined.

METHODS

Guided by Arksey and O'Malley's framework, a scoping review was conducted for studies reporting the AF-specific information needs of patients with AF. Systematic searches were conducted across six databases (Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO and ProQuest). All analyses were narrated in prose and outlined in tables. The PRISMA-ScR checklist was used to report this review.

RESULTS

The systematic search yielded 3816 articles, of which 22 were included. Three major themes emerged from the thematic analysis. Each theme was supported by three subthemes. First, in 'Understanding AF', patients reported the need for 'Easy-to-understand information', information on the 'Screening and diagnosis' of AF and 'Trajectory of disease and its associated risks'. Second, in 'Treating AF', patients required information on the 'Role of anticoagulation', 'Existing or novel therapeutic options' and 'Monitoring effectiveness of treatment'. Lastly, in 'Living with AF', patients needed education in 'Symptom management', 'Secondary prevention of risks' and 'Recognition of emergency situations'.

CONCLUSIONS

This review has identified the key AF-specific information needs of patients with AF. Being cognisant of the information needs of patients with AF, healthcare providers may become more effective in developing person-centred patient education interventions.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Delivering relevant patient education is an important cornerstone for atrial fibrillation care. Nurses by convention play a professional role in patient education. It may be facilitative for nurses to refer to the review findings when developing and implementing patient education interventions. Being in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, patient education strategies may require the use of telecommunication technologies.

Safety and Effectiveness of Rivaroxaban in Combination with Various Antiarrhythmic Drugs in Patients with Non-Permanent Atrial Fibrillation

INTRODUCTION

Rivaroxaban reduces the risk of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, who often also receive antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) to maintain sinus rhythm. Current guidelines contraindicate concomitant use of rivaroxaban with the popular AAD dronedarone, despite little data demonstrating interactions with AADs. This study investigates the outcomes of concomitant rivaroxaban and AAD drug use in a real-world cohort.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 1777 non-permanent AF patients taking rivaroxaban for ≥ 1 month between 2011 and 2016 from a multicenter cohort in Taiwan, and compared concomitant AAD use against clinical outcome endpoints for safety, effectiveness, and major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses were used to evaluate the association between concomitant AAD use and outcomes.

RESULTS

Patients were divided into rivaroxaban alone (n = 1205) and with concomitant amiodarone (n = 177), dronedarone (n = 231), or propafenone (n = 164) groups. The proportion of patients using rivaroxaban 10 mg was highest in the concomitant dronedarone group: rivaroxaban alone, 53.6%; with amiodarone, 57.6%; with dronedarone, 77.1%; and with propafenone, 46.3% (p < 0.001). The cumulative incidences of safety (p = 0.892), effectiveness (p = 0.336), and MACE (p = 0.674) were similar between the four groups; however, there were significantly fewer new systemic thromboembolisms in the dronedarone group: rivaroxaban alone, 2.5%; with amiodarone, 0.6%; with dronedarone, 0%; and with propafenone, 1.2% (p = 0.029). The all-cause death rate was also lowest in the dronedarone group: rivaroxaban alone, 9.0%; with amiodarone, 9.6%; with dronedarone, 3.0%; and with propafenone: 6.1% (p = 0.013). After covariate adjustment, there were no differences in the safety, effectiveness, and MACE endpoints between patients receiving or not receiving AADs.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant use of rivaroxaban with AADs appears to be well tolerated, warranting further investigation into the apparent benefits of a reduced dose of rivaroxaban combined with dronedarone.

Thromboembolic events following cardioversion of acute atrial fibrillation and flutter: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have presented concerning data on the safety of cardioversion for acute atrial fibrillation and flutter. We conducted this meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of oral anticoagulation use on thromboembolic events post-cardioversion of low-risk acute atrial fibrillation and flutter patients of < 48 h in duration.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane from inception through February 6, 2020 for studies reporting thromboembolic events post-cardioversion of acute atrial fibrillation and flutter. Main outcome was thromboembolic events within 30 days post-cardioversion. Primary analysis compared thromboembolic events based on oral anticoagulation use versus no oral anticoagulation use. Secondary analysis was based on baseline thromboembolic risk. We performed meta-analyses where 2 or more studies were available, by applying the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. Risk of bias was assessed with the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool.

RESULTS

Of 717 titles screened, 20 studies met inclusion criteria. Primary analysis of seven studies with low risk of bias demonstrated insufficient evidence regarding the risk of thromboembolic events associated with oral anticoagulation use (RR = 0.82 where RR < 1 suggests decreased risk with oral anticoagulation use; 95% CI 0.27 to 2.47; I² = 0%). Secondary analysis of 13 studies revealed increased risk of thromboembolic events with high baseline thromboembolic risk (RR = 2.25 where RR > 1 indicates increased risk with higher CHADS₂ or CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores; 95% CI 1.25 to 4.04; I² = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Primary analysis revealed insufficient evidence regarding the effect of oral anticoagulation use on thromboembolic events post-cardioversion of low-risk acute atrial fibrillation and flutter, though the event rate is low in contemporary practice. Our findings can better inform patient-centered decision-making when considering 4-week oral anticoagulation use for acute atrial fibrillation and flutter patients.

Correlation Between CHA2DS2-VASc Score and Left Atrial Size in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A More Than 15-Year Prospective Follow-Up Study

Background: Left atrial (LA) size represents atrial fibrillation (AF) burden and has been shown to be a predictor for AF stroke. The CHA₂DS₂-VASc score is also a well-established predictor of AF stroke. It is unknown to cardiologists whether these two risk scores are correlated, whether both are independent prognostic predictors and complimentary to each other, or whether one of them is a major determinant of stroke risk for AF patients.

Method: A total of 708 patients from the National Taiwan University Atrial Fibrillation Registry were longitudinally followed up for more than 15 years. Left atrial size was measured by M mode of echocardiography. Adverse thromboembolic endpoints during follow-up were defined as ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack.

Results: The mean age was 72.1 ± 12.9 years, with 53% men. Both LA size and CHA₂DS₂-VASc score were associated with the risk of stroke in univariate analyses. There was a weak but significant positive correlation between LA size and CHA₂DS₂-VASc score (r = 0.17, P < 0.0001). Patients with higher CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores had a higher mean LA size (P < 0.01 for trend). When combining LA size and CHA₂DS₂-VASc score in the multivariable Cox model, only CHA₂DS₂-VASc score remained statistically significant [HR 1.39 (1.20–1.63); P < 0.001].

Conclusion: LA size is not an independent predictor of AF stroke, and calculation of CHA₂DS₂-VASc score may be an alternative to measurement of echocardiographic LA size when evaluating the risk of stroke for AF patients.

Off-label reduced-dose apixaban does not reduce hemorrhagic risk in Taiwanese patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A retrospective, observational study

ABSTRACT

East Asians are reportedly at high risk of anticoagulant-related bleeding; therefore, some physicians prefer to prescribe low-dose direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Little is known about the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of off-label reduced-dose apixaban in East Asians with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of off-label reduced-dose apixaban in Taiwanese patients with nonvalvular AF.This retrospective cohort study enrolled 1073 patients with nonvalvular AF who took apixaban between July 2014 and October 2018 from 4 medical centers in southern Taiwan. The primary outcomes included thromboembolic events (stroke/transient ischemic attack or systemic embolism), major bleeding, and all-cause mortality.Among all patients, 826 (77%) patients were classified as the "per-label adequate-dose" treatment group (i.e., consistent with the Food and Drug Administration label recommendations) while 247 (23%) patients were the "off-label reduced-dose" treatment group. The mean follow-up period was 17.5 ± 13 months. The "off-label reduced-dose" group did not have a lower major bleeding rate than the "per-label adequate-dose" group (4.8% vs 3.8%, adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69-2.09), but had a nonsignificantly higher incidence of thromboembolic events (4.23% vs 3.05%, adjusted HR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.71-2.34).An off-label reduced-dose apixaban treatment strategy may not provide incremental benefits or safety for Taiwanese patients with nonvalvular AF.

A Novel Creatinine-Based Equation to Estimate Glomerular Filtration Rate in Chinese Population With Chronic Kidney Disease: Implications for DOACs Dosing in Atrial Fibrillation Patients

Background: Over/under-estimating renal function may increase inappropriate dosing strategy associated adverse outcomes; however, previously reported equations to estimate renal function have limited accuracy in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Consequently, we intended to develop a novel equation to precisely estimate renal function and subsequently guide clinical treatment for CKD patients.

Methods: A novel approach, Xiangya-s equation, to estimate renal function for CKD patients was derived by linear regression analysis and validated in 1885 patients with measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m² by renal dynamic imaging at three representative hospitals in China, with the performance evaluated by accuracy, bias and precision. In the meanwhile, 2,165 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients who initiated direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) between December 2015 and December 2018 were identified and renal function was assessed by estimated creatinine clearance (eCrCl). Events per 100 patient-years was calculated. Cox proportional hazards regression was applied to compare the incidence of outcomes of each group.

Results: Xiangya-s equation demonstrated higher accuracy, lower bias and improved precision when compared with 12 creatinine-based and 2 CysC-based reported equations to estimate GFR in multi-ethnic Chinese CKD patients. When we applied Xiangya-s equation to patients with AF and CKD prescribed DOACs, wide variability was discovered in eCrCl calculated by the Cockcroft-Gault (CG), Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (MDRD), Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI), Xiangya equation which we had developed for generally patients and Xiangya-s equations, which persisted after grouping by different renal function stages. Equation choice affected drug-dosing adjustments, with the formulas agreeing for only 1.19%, 5.52%, 33.22%, 26.32%, and 36.61% of potentially impacted patients for eCrCl cutoffs of <15, <30, 15–49, 30–49, ≥50 ml/min, respectively. Relative to CG equation, accordance in DOACs dosage was 81.08%, 88.54%, 62.25%, and 47.68% for MDRD, CKD-EPI, Xiangya and Xiangya-s equations for patients with CrCl < 50 ml/min (eCrCl cutoffs of <30, 30–49, ≥50 ml/min), respectively. Reclassification of renal function stages by Xiangya-s equation was significantly associated with stroke or systemic embolism, non-major clinically relevant bleeding and any bleeding events.

Conclusion: Xiangya-s equation provides more accurate GFR estimates in Chinese CKD patients who need consecutive monitoring of renal function, which may assist clinicians in choosing appropriate drug dosages.

Thromboembolic events in atrial fibrillation: Different level of risk and pattern between peripheral artery disease and coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

The existence of vascular disease in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events. It is unclear whether coronary artery disease (CAD) and/or peripheral artery disease (PAD) have similar presentations and complication rates.

AIM

To investigate thromboembolic events among patients with AF who have CAD, PAD or polyvascular disease.

METHODS

Patients with a new diagnosis of AF without anticoagulation (n=306,386) were identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan (2001-2013). Ischaemic stroke (IS), systemic thromboembolism (STE) and their combination (IS/STE) were compared in four groups (No-CAD/PAD, CAD-only, PAD-only, CAD+PAD), and secondarily in patients with only CAD versus only PAD. Last, we compared propensity score-matched patients with only CAD or PAD with those with CAD and PAD.

RESULTS

There were 185,169 patients without CAD or PAD, 8113 patients with only PAD, 105,715 patients with only CAD, and 7389 patients with CAD and PAD eligible for analysis (mean±SD follow-up 3.2±3.2 years). The incidences of STE and IS/STE differed in the four groups, with the highest in the CAD+PAD group and the lowest in the No-CAD/PAD group. The proportions of IS and STE also varied, with higher proportions of STE in patients with PAD, but higher proportions of IS in patients with CAD. After propensity score matching, the PAD-only group had significantly higher incidences of STE and IS/STE than the CAD-only group, across all levels of CHA₂DS₂-VASc score. Patients with CAD and PAD had a significantly higher incidence of STE and IS/STE than propensity score-matched patients with CAD or PAD.

CONCLUSIONS

PAD or CAD in patients with AF did not contribute equally to the risk prediction and presentation of IS and STE. Patients with polyvascular disease should be considered at higher risk than those with either condition.

Time to Stable Therapeutic Range on Initiation of Warfarin as an Indicator of Control

OBJECTIVES

Warfarin remains widely used with a time in therapeutic range (TiTR) above 65% recommended for best outcomes. Patients not achieving or maintaining this warfarin control may be better suited to alternate anticoagulants. Despite this, there is limited data defining a suitable trial time in patients initiating warfarin therapy, therefore the aim of this study was to determine the mean time to stable therapeutic range (TtSTR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective data was collected for patients with atrial fibrillation enrolled in a dedicated warfarin program at a private pathology practice within 7 days of warfarin initiation. TiTR at specified timepoints was calculated and median TtSTR determined as defined by TiTR ≥ 65% over three months. Comparisons were made of populations with TtSTR above or below the median.

RESULTS

The 566 patients included in the study had a mean TiTR of 64.9±16.5% at month three and median TtSTR of six months. Patients with TtSTR≤6 months achieved a mean TiTR of 68.9±12.8% at month two and maintained a TiTR over 75% from month 3 to 24. Patients with a TtSTR>6 months obtained a TiTR of 66.4±10.6% at month nine and continued to achieve lower TiTR throughout the 24 months study period.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of patients can achieve a stable TiTR above 65% within six months so review at six to nine months is likely to be a good indicator of warfarin control and to determine if patients should continue warfarin or switch to alternate anticoagulant therapy.

New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Primary Aldosteronism Receiving Different Treatment Strategies: Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of Three Studies

BACKGROUND

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common cause of secondary hypertension and associated with higher incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF). However, the effects of surgical or medical therapies on preventing NOAF in PA patents remain unclear. The aim of this meta-analysis study was to assess the risk of NOAF among PA patients receiving mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) treatment, PA patients receiving adrenalectomy, and patients with essential hypertension.

METHODS

We performed the meta-analysis of the randomized or observational studies that investigated the incidence rate of NOAF in PA patients receiving MRA treatment versus PA patients receiving adrenalectomy from database inception until December 01, 2020 which were identified from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library.

RESULTS

A total of 172 related studies were reviewed, of which three fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including a total of 2,705 PA patients. The results of meta-analysis demonstrated a higher incidence of NOAF among the PA patients receiving MRA treatment compared to the PA patients receiving adrenalectomy (pooled odds ratio [OR]: 2.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.76-4.57 in the random effects model, I² = 0%). The pooled OR for the PA patients receiving MRA treatment compared to the patients with essential hypertension was 1.91 (95% CI: 1.11-3.28). The pooled OR for the PA patients receiving adrenalectomy compared to the patients with essential hypertension was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.28-1.79).

CONCLUSION

Compared to the essential hypertension patients and the PA patients receiving adrenalectomy, the patients with PA receiving MRA treatment had a higher risk of NOAF.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021222022.

Understanding the barriers to using oral anticoagulants among long-term aspirin users with atrial fibrillation - a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Despite international treatment guidelines currently advocating oral anticoagulants (OACs) as the only appropriate stroke prevention therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and evidence that OACs can greatly reduce the risk of stroke with similar risk of bleeding compared with aspirin, the underuse of OACs in patients with AF is common globally, especially in Asia. This study aimed to identify the barriers to prescribing and using OACs among long-term aspirin users with AF.

METHOD

Face-to-face interviews were conducted with fourteen eligible patients with AF using a semi-structured interview guide. The interview recordings were transcribed verbatim and data was analyzed according to the principles of thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Five themes were developed: awareness of AF symptoms and diagnosis; knowledge and understanding of AF and stroke prevention therapy; role of decision-making in prescribing; willingness to switch from aspirin to OACs; and impact of OAC regimen on daily living. The majority of the patients were not aware of the symptoms and diagnosis of AF and only had a vague understanding of the illness and stroke prevention therapy, leading to their minimal involvement in decisions relating to their treatment. Some patients and their caregivers were particularly concerned about the bleeding complications from OACs and perceived aspirin to be a suitable alternative as they find the adverse effects from aspirin manageable and so preferred to remain on aspirin if switching to OACs was not compulsory. Lastly, the lifestyle modifications required when using warfarin, e.g. alternative dosing regimen, diet restriction, were seen as barriers to some patients and caregivers.

CONCLUSION

The findings revealed patients' knowledge gap in AF management which may be targeted using educational interventions to improve patients' understanding of AF and its management and hence encourage active participation in the decision-making of their treatment in the future.

Quality of oral anticoagulation control in Chinese patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation: a prospective controlled study

OBJECTIVE

The sex, age, medical history, treatment, tobacco use, race risk (SAMe-TT₂R₂) Score; the sex, age, medical history, treatment, tobacco use, genotype combination (SAMe-TT₂G₂) Score; and the so-called modified SAMe-TT₂R₂ scores have been proposed to predict the anticoagulation quality for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). The data from a prospective controlled study is used to validate the SAMe-TT₂R₂ and SAMe-TT₂G₂ scores in Chinese NVAF patients treated with warfarin and to evaluate the association of factors with time in therapeutic range (TTR) to predict the quality of oral anticoagulation control.

METHODS

A total of 379 patients with NVAF under warfarin treatment for a three-month follow-up were included in this prospective, multicenter study. The quality of oral anticoagulation control was evaluated by the TTR. The TTR was dichotomized for binary logistic regression analysis, using a cutoff point for classification as an inadequate (TTR < 65.0%) control.

RESULTS

The 379 NVAF patients had a mean TTR of 58.35 ± 26.33% and median SAMe-TT₂R₂ and SAMe-TT₂G₂ scores of 3 and 2, respectively. The discrimination performances of the SAMe-TT₂R₂ and SAMe-TT₂G₂ scores for inadequate anticoagulation control (TTR < 65.0%) were poor (c-index < 0.60). The gene frequency of CYP2C9*3 was 3.2% and that of VKORC1-1639 G > A was 89.3%. Genetic variation of CYP2C9*3 and VKORC1-1639 G > A did not affect TTR after initial treatment. The condition TTR < 65.0% was associated with an age below 60 without genotype-guided warfarin dose initiation and concomitant torasemide.

CONCLUSIONS

A warfarin-dosing algorithm used for initial treatment of patients older than 60 helps to achieve a better quality of oral anticoagulation control, whereas concomitant torasemide can produce a negative effect. These findings provide useful information for future investigations on the quality of oral anticoagulation control in Chinese anticoagulation clinical practice.

Effectiveness and Safety of Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulant and Warfarin in Cirrhotic Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation

Background

Liver cirrhotic patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation have been excluded from randomized clinical studies regarding oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention. Whether non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are superior to warfarin for these patients remains unclear.

Methods and Results

This nationwide retrospective cohort study, with data collected from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, enrolled 2428 liver cirrhotic patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation taking apixaban (n=171), dabigatran (n=535), rivaroxaban (n=732), or warfarin (n=990) from June 1, 2012, to December 31, 2016. We used propensity score–based stabilized weights to balance covariates across study groups. Patients were followed until the occurrence of an event or the end date of study. The NOAC group (n=1438) showed risk of ischemic stroke/systemic embolism and intracranial hemorrhage comparable to that of the warfarin group (n=990) after adjustment. The NOAC group showed significantly lower risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (hazard ratio: 0.51 [95% CI, 0.32–0.79]; P=0.0030) and all major bleeding (hazard ratio: 0.51 [95% CI, 0.32–0.74]; P=0.0003) compared with warfarin group. Overall, 90% (n=1290) of patients were taking a low‐dose NOAC (apixaban 2.5 mg twice daily, rivaroxaban 10–15 mg daily, or dabigatran 110 mg twice daily). The subgroup analysis indicated that both dabigatran and rivaroxaban showed lower risk of all major bleeding than warfarin. The advantage of lower gastrointestinal and all major bleeding with NOACs over warfarin is contributed by those subgroups with either nonalcoholic or nonadvanced liver cirrhosis.

Conclusions

NOACs have a risk of thromboembolism comparable to that of warfarin and a lower risk of major bleeding among liver cirrhotic Asian patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Consequently, thromboprophylaxis with low‐dose NOACs may be considered for such patients.

See Editorial by Gallagher et al

Combination of Oral Anticoagulants and Single Antiplatelets versus Triple Therapy in Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation and Acute Coronary Syndrome: Stroke Prevention among Asians

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most prevalent arrhythmic disease, tends to foster thrombus formation due to hemodynamic disturbances, leading to severe disabling and even fatal thromboembolic diseases. Meanwhile, patients with AF may also present with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and coronary artery disease (CAD) requiring stenting, which creates a clinical dilemma considering that majority of such patients will likely receive oral anticoagulants (OACs) for stroke prevention and require additional double antiplatelet treatment (DAPT) to reduce recurrent cardiac events and in-stent thrombosis. In such cases, the gentle balance between bleeding risk and atherothromboembolic events needs to be carefully considered. Studies have shown that congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years (doubled), diabetes mellitus, and previous stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA; doubled)-vascular disease, age 65 to 74 years, sex category (female; CHA ₂ DS ₂ -VASc) scores outperform other scoring systems in Asian populations and that the hypertension, abnormal renal/liver function (1 point each), stroke, bleeding history or predisposition, labile international normalized ratio (INR), elderly (>65 years), drugs/alcohol concomitantly (1 point each; HAS-BLED) score, a simple clinical score that predicts bleeding risk in patients with AF, particularly among Asians, performs better than other bleeding scores. A high HAS-BLED score should not be used to rule out OAC treatment but should instead prompt clinicians to address correctable risk factors. Therefore, the current review attempted to analyze available data from patients with nonvalvular AF who underwent stenting for ACS or CAD and elaborate on the direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) and antiplatelet management among such patients. For majority of the patients, "triple therapy" comprising OAC, aspirin, and clopidogrel should be considered for 1 to 6 months following ACS. However, the optimal duration for "triple therapy" would depend on the patient's ischemic and bleeding risks, with DOACs being obviously safer than vitamin-K antagonists.

Adherence to Anticoagulant Guideline for Atrial Fibrillation Improves Outcomes in Asian Population: The COOL-AF Registry

Background and Purpose- Guideline adherent oral anticoagulant (OAC) management of patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation has been associated with improved outcomes, but limited data are available from Asia. We aimed to investigate outcomes in patients who received guideline compliant management compared with those who were OAC undertreated or overtreated, in a large nationwide multicenter cohort of patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in Thailand. Methods- Patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation were prospectively enrolled from 27 hospitals-all of which are data contributors to the COOL-AF Registry (Cohort of Antithrombotic Use and Optimal INR Level in Patients With Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation in Thailand). Patients were categorized as follows: (1) guideline adherence group when OAC was given in high-risk or intermediate-risk, but not in low-risk patients; (2) undertreatment group when OAC was not given in the high-risk or intermediate-risk groups; and (3) overtreatment group when OAC was given in the low-risk group or when OAC was given in combination with antiplatelets without indication. Results- A total of 3327 patients who had follow-up clinical outcome data were included. The mean age of patients was 67.4 years and 58.1% were male. The numbers of patients in the guideline adherence group, undertreatment group, and overtreatment group were 2267 (68.1%), 624 (18.8%), and 436 (13.1%) patients, respectively. The overall rate of ischemic stroke, major bleeding, all bleeding, and death was 3.0%, 4.4%, 15.1%, and 7.8%, respectively. Undertreated patients had a higher risk of ischemic stroke and death compared with guideline adherent patients, and overtreated patients had a higher risk of bleeding and death compared with OAC guideline-managed patients. Conclusions- Adherence to OAC management guidelines is associated with improved clinical outcomes in Asian nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients. Undertreatment or overtreatment was found to be associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes compared with guideline-adherent management.

Comparison of Arrhythmia Detection by 24-Hour Holter and 14-Day Continuous Electrocardiography Patch Monitoring

BACKGROUND

Although 24-hour Holter monitoring is routinely used for patients with suspected paroxysmal arrhythmia, its sensitivity in detecting such arrhythmias is insufficient.

METHODS

We compared a 14-day electrocardiography (ECG) monitor patch - a single-use, noninvasive, waterproof, continuous monitoring patch - with a 24-hour Holter monitor in 32 consecutive patients with suspected arrhythmia.

RESULTS

The 14-day ECG patch was well tolerated, and its rates of detection of relevant arrhythmias on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 were 13%, 28%, 47%, and 66%, respectively. The detection rate of paroxysmal arrhythmias was significantly higher for the 14-day ECG patch than for the 24-hour Holter monitor (66% vs. 9%, p < 0.001). Among the 32 patients, 202 atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter episodes were detected in 6 patients (22%) with the 14-day ECG patch; however, only 1 atrial fibrillation episode was detected in a patient (3%, p < 0.05) with the 24-hour Holter monitor. Other clinically relevant arrhythmias recorded on the 14-day ECG patch included 21 (65.5%) episodes of supraventricular tachycardia, 2 (6.3%) long pause, and 2 (6.3%) ventricular arrhythmias. The mean dermal response score immediately after removal of the 14-day ECG patch from the patients was 0.64, which indicated minimal erythema.

CONCLUSIONS

The 14-day ECG patch was well tolerated and allowed for longer continuous monitoring than the 24-hour Holter monitor, thus resulting in improved clinical accuracy in the detection of paroxysmal arrhythmias. Future studies should examine the long-term effectiveness of 14-day ECG patches for managing selected patients.

Predicting the Risk of Ischemic Stroke among Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Using a Simplified RA-CHADSV Score Based on the CHA2DS2-VASc Score

Background and Objectives: The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to develop a new score (RA-CHADSV) (rheumatoid arthritis - congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes mellitus, stroke/transient ischemic attack/thromboembolism, and vascular disease), modified from the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years (doubled), diabetes mellitus, stroke/transient ischemic attack (doubled), vascular disease, age 65–74 years, and female), in predicting the risk of ischemic stroke in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients without atrial fibrillation (AF). Materials and Methods: Using the Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database, 592 patients with RA diagnosed between 2000 and 2002 were identified and followed until first occurrence of ischemic stroke or the last available date in the database. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) of ischemic stroke for the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score were calculated using Poisson regression models. A new prediction score RA-CHADSV was developed using multiple logistic regression analysis with bootstrap validation. Results: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the newly developed RA-CHADSV score and the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score were 0.73 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–0.82) and 0.70 (95% CI 0.61–0.79), respectively. The RA-CHADSV score was significantly associated with a higher ischemic stroke incidence in the patients who scored ≥1 (adjusted IRR 7.39, p < 0.001). Conclusions: A simplified RA-CHADSV score, with comparable efficiency as the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score, but easier to use clinically was developed for predicting the risk of ischemic stroke among non-AF RA patients.