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Ma C, Wu S, Liu S, Han Y. Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 47:714-770. [PMID: 38687179 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, significantly impacting patients' quality of life and increasing the risk of death, stroke, heart failure, and dementia. Over the past two decades, there have been significant breakthroughs in AF risk prediction and screening, stroke prevention, rhythm control, catheter ablation, and integrated management. During this period, the scale, quality, and experience of AF management in China have greatly improved, providing a solid foundation for the development of the guidelines for the diagnosis and management of AF. To further promote standardized AF management, and apply new technologies and concepts to clinical practice timely and fully, the Chinese Society of Cardiology of Chinese Medical Association and the Heart Rhythm Committee of Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering jointly developed the Chinese Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation. The guidelines comprehensively elaborated on various aspects of AF management and proposed the CHA2DS2‑VASc‑60 stroke risk score based on the characteristics of the Asian AF population. The guidelines also reevaluated the clinical application of AF screening, emphasized the significance of early rhythm control, and highlighted the central role of catheter ablation in rhythm control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsheng Ma
- Chinese Society of Cardiology, Chinese Medical Association, Heart Rhythm Committee of Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering, Beijing, China
| | - Shulin Wu
- Chinese Society of Cardiology, Chinese Medical Association, Heart Rhythm Committee of Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering, Beijing, China
| | - Shaowen Liu
- Chinese Society of Cardiology, Chinese Medical Association, Heart Rhythm Committee of Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering, Beijing, China
| | - Yaling Han
- Chinese Society of Cardiology, Chinese Medical Association, Heart Rhythm Committee of Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering, Beijing, China
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2
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Kistler PM, Sanders P, Amarena JV, Bain CR, Chia KM, Choo WK, Eslick AT, Hall T, Hopper IK, Kotschet E, Lim HS, Ling LH, Mahajan R, Marasco SF, McGuire MA, McLellan AJ, Pathak RK, Phillips KP, Prabhu S, Stiles MK, Sy RW, Thomas SP, Toy T, Watts TW, Weerasooriya R, Wilsmore BR, Wilson L, Kalman JM. 2023 Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand Expert Position Statement on Catheter and Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation. Heart Lung Circ 2024; 33:828-881. [PMID: 38702234 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2023.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) has increased exponentially in many developed countries, including Australia and New Zealand. This Expert Position Statement on Catheter and Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation from the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) recognises healthcare factors, expertise and expenditure relevant to the Australian and New Zealand healthcare environments including considerations of potential implications for First Nations Peoples. The statement is cognisant of international advice but tailored to local conditions and populations, and is intended to be used by electrophysiologists, cardiologists and general physicians across all disciplines caring for patients with AF. They are also intended to provide guidance to healthcare facilities seeking to establish or maintain catheter ablation for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Kistler
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.
| | - Prash Sanders
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Chris R Bain
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Karin M Chia
- Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Wai-Kah Choo
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia; Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Adam T Eslick
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | | | - Ingrid K Hopper
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Emily Kotschet
- Victorian Heart Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Han S Lim
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Austin Health, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Northern Health, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Liang-Han Ling
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Lyell McEwin Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Silvana F Marasco
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | | | - Alex J McLellan
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Rajeev K Pathak
- Australian National University and Canberra Heart Rhythm, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Karen P Phillips
- Brisbane AF Clinic, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Sandeep Prabhu
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Martin K Stiles
- Waikato Clinical School, University of Auckland, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Raymond W Sy
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stuart P Thomas
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tracey Toy
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Troy W Watts
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Rukshen Weerasooriya
- Hollywood Private Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia; University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | | | - Jonathan M Kalman
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
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3
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Troisi F, Guida P, Vitulano N, Quadrini F, Di Monaco A, Patti G, Grimaldi M. Atrial Thrombosis Prevalence Before Cardioversion or Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Direct Oral Anticoagulants Versus Vitamin K Antagonists. Am J Cardiol 2024; 218:77-85. [PMID: 38458580 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2024.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Left atrial or left atrial appendage thrombosis (LAT) is contraindicated for cardiac ablation (CA) or cardioversion (CV) of atrial fibrillation (AF). This study was aimed to compare the frequency of LAT detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before CA or CV in patients with AF treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochran Library databases from inception through July 13, 2023 to select studies reporting data on LAT identification before CA or CV using TEE in patients with AF treated with DOACs or VKAs. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval were calculated with a random-effects model. Studies retrieved were 50 (38 observational), 29 on CA, 15 on CV, and 6 on both procedures (17,096 patients on DOACs and 13,666 on VKAs). The overall prevalence of LAT was smaller in DOACs than in VKAs, with an OR of 0.66 (0.52 to 0.84), confirmed at sensitivity analysis and in most subgroups. This finding was consistent for the 3 most reported DOACs: the pooled OR for LAT was 0.68 (0.50 to 0.90) in apixaban, 0.67 (0.51 to 0.88) in dabigatran, 0.61 (0.43 to 0.89) in rivaroxaban, and 1.10 (0.74 to 1.64) in edoxaban (not significant). In conclusion, in this large meta-analysis in patients with AF, the prevalence of LAT by TEE evaluation performed before CV or CA appears lower in those treated with DOACs than in those on VKAs. Additional research may help in better understanding differences between these classes of anticoagulant drugs in the setting of protection against AF-related left atrial thrombotic formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Troisi
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy.
| | - Pietro Guida
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Vitulano
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy
| | - Federico Quadrini
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Monaco
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy; Division of Cardiology, AOU Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Massimo Grimaldi
- Cardiology Department, Regional General Hospital "F. Miulli," Bari, Italy
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MA CS, WU SL, LIU SW, HAN YL. Chinese Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation. J Geriatr Cardiol 2024; 21:251-314. [PMID: 38665287 PMCID: PMC11040055 DOI: 10.26599/1671-5411.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, significantly impacting patients' quality of life and increasing the risk of death, stroke, heart failure, and dementia. Over the past two decades, there have been significant breakthroughs in AF risk prediction and screening, stroke prevention, rhythm control, catheter ablation, and integrated management. During this period, the scale, quality, and experience of AF management in China have greatly improved, providing a solid foundation for the development of guidelines for the diagnosis and management of AF. To further promote standardized AF management, and apply new technologies and concepts to clinical practice in a timely and comprehensive manner, the Chinese Society of Cardiology of the Chinese Medical Association and the Heart Rhythm Committee of the Chinese Society of Biomedical Engineering have jointly developed the Chinese Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation. The guidelines have comprehensively elaborated on various aspects of AF management and proposed the CHA2DS2-VASc-60 stroke risk score based on the characteristics of AF in the Asian population. The guidelines have also reevaluated the clinical application of AF screening, emphasized the significance of early rhythm control, and highlighted the central role of catheter ablation in rhythm control.
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5
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Gupta S, Lutnik M, Cacioppo F, Lindmayr T, Schuetz N, Tumnitz E, Friedl L, Boegl M, Schnaubelt S, Domanovits H, Spiel A, Toth D, Varga R, Raudner M, Herkner H, Schwameis M, Niederdoeckl J. Computed Tomography to Exclude Cardiac Thrombus in Atrial Fibrillation-An 11-Year Experience from an Academic Emergency Department. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:699. [PMID: 38611612 PMCID: PMC11011443 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computed tomography (CT) could be a suitable method for acute exclusion of left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT) prior to cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter (AFL) at the emergency department. Our aim was to present our experiences with this modality in recent years. METHODS This registry-based observational study was performed at the Department of Emergency Medicine at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria. We studied all consecutive patients with AF and AFL who underwent CT between January 2012 and January 2023 to rule out LAAT before cardioversion to sinus rhythm was attempted. Follow-ups were conducted by telephone and electronic medical records. The main variables of interest were the rate of LAAT and ischemic stroke at follow-up. RESULTS A total of 234 patients (143 [61%] men; median age 68 years [IQR 57-76], median CHA2DS2-VASc 2 [IQR 1-4]) were analyzed. Follow-up was completed in 216 (92%) patients after a median of 506 (IQR 159-1391) days. LAAT was detected in eight patients (3%). A total of 163 patients (72%) in whom LAAT was excluded by CT were eventually successfully cardioverted to sinus rhythm. No adverse events occurred during their ED stay. All patients received anticoagulation according to the CHA2DS2-VASc risk stratification, and no patient had suffered an ischemic stroke at follow-up, resulting in an incidence risk of ischemic strokes of 0% (95% CI 0.0-1.2%). CONCLUSION LAAT was rare in patients admitted to the ED with AF and AFL who underwent cardiac CT prior to attempted cardioversion. At follow-up, no patient had suffered an ischemic stroke. Prospective studies need to show whether this strategy is suitable for the acute treatment of symptomatic AF in the emergency setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Gupta
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Martin Lutnik
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Filippo Cacioppo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Teresa Lindmayr
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Nikola Schuetz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Elvis Tumnitz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Lena Friedl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Magdalena Boegl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
- Clinical Division of Gynaecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Schnaubelt
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Hans Domanovits
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Alexander Spiel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Clinic Ottakring, Vienna Healthcare Group, 1160 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Daniel Toth
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (D.T.); (R.V.); (M.R.)
| | - Raoul Varga
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (D.T.); (R.V.); (M.R.)
| | - Marcus Raudner
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (D.T.); (R.V.); (M.R.)
| | - Harald Herkner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Michael Schwameis
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Jan Niederdoeckl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (S.G.); (F.C.); (T.L.); (N.S.); (E.T.); (L.F.); (M.B.); (S.S.); (H.D.); (H.H.); (J.N.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
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6
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Di Biase L, Lakkireddy DJ, Marazzato J, Velasco A, Diaz JC, Navara R, Chrispin J, Rajagopalan B, Natale A, Mohanty S, Zhang X, Della Rocca D, Dalal A, Park K, Wiley J, Batchelor W, Cheung JW, Dangas G, Mehran R, Romero J. Antithrombotic Therapy for Patients Undergoing Cardiac Electrophysiological and Interventional Procedures: JACC State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:82-108. [PMID: 38171713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.09.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Electrophysiological and interventional procedures have been increasingly used to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients experiencing cardiovascular diseases. Although antithrombotic therapies are critical to reduce the risk of stroke or other thromboembolic events, they can nonetheless increase the bleeding hazard. This is even more true in an aging population undergoing cardiac procedures in which the combination of oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapies would further increase the hemorrhagic risk. Hence, the timing, dose, and combination of antithrombotic therapies should be carefully chosen in each case. However, the maze of society guidelines and consensus documents published so far have progressively led to a hazier scenario in this setting. Aim of this review is to provide-in a single document-a quick, evidenced-based practical summary of the antithrombotic approaches used in different cardiac electrophysiology and interventional procedures to guide the busy clinician and the cardiac proceduralist in their everyday practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Di Biase
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.
| | | | - Jacopo Marazzato
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Alejandro Velasco
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Diaz
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rachita Navara
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jonathan Chrispin
- Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Andrea Natale
- Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Aarti Dalal
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ki Park
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jose Wiley
- Division of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Wayne Batchelor
- Inova Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, Virginia, USA
| | - Jim W Cheung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - George Dangas
- Division of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Roxana Mehran
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jorge Romero
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore-Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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7
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Joglar JA, Chung MK, Armbruster AL, Benjamin EJ, Chyou JY, Cronin EM, Deswal A, Eckhardt LL, Goldberger ZD, Gopinathannair R, Gorenek B, Hess PL, Hlatky M, Hogan G, Ibeh C, Indik JH, Kido K, Kusumoto F, Link MS, Linta KT, Marcus GM, McCarthy PM, Patel N, Patton KK, Perez MV, Piccini JP, Russo AM, Sanders P, Streur MM, Thomas KL, Times S, Tisdale JE, Valente AM, Van Wagoner DR. 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation 2024; 149:e1-e156. [PMID: 38033089 PMCID: PMC11095842 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 231.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM The "2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted from May 12, 2022, to November 3, 2022, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that were published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through November 2022, during the guideline writing process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables, where appropriate. STRUCTURE Atrial fibrillation is the most sustained common arrhythmia, and its incidence and prevalence are increasing in the United States and globally. Recommendations from the "2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation" and the "2019 AHA/ACC/HRS Focused Update of the 2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation" have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing atrial fibrillation and thromboembolic risk assessment, anticoagulation, left atrial appendage occlusion, atrial fibrillation catheter or surgical ablation, and risk factor modification and atrial fibrillation prevention have been developed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anita Deswal
- ACC/AHA Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines liaison
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul L Hess
- ACC/AHA Joint Committee on Performance Measures liaison
| | | | | | | | | | - Kazuhiko Kido
- American College of Clinical Pharmacy representative
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8
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Joglar JA, Chung MK, Armbruster AL, Benjamin EJ, Chyou JY, Cronin EM, Deswal A, Eckhardt LL, Goldberger ZD, Gopinathannair R, Gorenek B, Hess PL, Hlatky M, Hogan G, Ibeh C, Indik JH, Kido K, Kusumoto F, Link MS, Linta KT, Marcus GM, McCarthy PM, Patel N, Patton KK, Perez MV, Piccini JP, Russo AM, Sanders P, Streur MM, Thomas KL, Times S, Tisdale JE, Valente AM, Van Wagoner DR. 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:109-279. [PMID: 38043043 PMCID: PMC11104284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM The "2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted from May 12, 2022, to November 3, 2022, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that were published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through November 2022, during the guideline writing process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables, where appropriate. STRUCTURE Atrial fibrillation is the most sustained common arrhythmia, and its incidence and prevalence are increasing in the United States and globally. Recommendations from the "2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation" and the "2019 AHA/ACC/HRS Focused Update of the 2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation" have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing atrial fibrillation and thromboembolic risk assessment, anticoagulation, left atrial appendage occlusion, atrial fibrillation catheter or surgical ablation, and risk factor modification and atrial fibrillation prevention have been developed.
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9
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Gao TG, Liu SF. Response to the Letter by Kataoka, et al. Regarding the Article, "Investigation of Stroke Risk Factors and Prognostic Indicators in NVAF Patients with Low CHA 2DS 2-VASc Scores". Int Heart J 2024; 65:592. [PMID: 38825502 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.24-174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Tang-Gang Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University
| | - Sui-Feng Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University
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10
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Long B, Brady WJ, Gottlieb M. Emergency medicine updates: Atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. Am J Emerg Med 2023; 74:57-64. [PMID: 37776840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial fibrillation (AF) may lead to stroke, heart failure, and death. When AF occurs in the context of a rapid ventricular rate/response (RVR), this can lead to complications, including hypoperfusion and cardiac ischemia. Emergency physicians play a key role in the diagnosis and management of this dysrhythmia. OBJECTIVE This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning AF with RVR for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION Differentiating primary and secondary AF with RVR and evaluating hemodynamic stability are vital components of ED assessment and management. Troponin can assist in determining the risk of adverse outcomes, but universal troponin testing is not required in patients at low risk of acute coronary syndrome or coronary artery disease - especially patients with recurrent episodes of paroxysmal AF that are similar to their prior events. Emergent cardioversion is indicated in hemodynamically unstable patients. Rate or rhythm control should be pursued in hemodynamically stable patients. Elective cardioversion is a safe option for select patients and may reduce AF symptoms and risk of AF recurrence. Rate control using beta blockers or calcium channel blockers should be pursued in those with AF with RVR who do not undergo cardioversion. Anticoagulation is an important component of management, and several tools (e.g., CHA2DS2-VASc) are available to assist with this decision. Direct oral anticoagulants are the first-line medication class for anticoagulation. Disposition can be challenging, and several risk assessment tools (e.g., RED-AF, AFFORD, and the AFTER (complex, modified, and pragmatic) scores) are available to assist with disposition decisions. CONCLUSION An understanding of the recent updates in the literature concerning AF with RVR can assist emergency clinicians in the care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brit Long
- SAUSHEC, Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA.
| | - William J Brady
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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11
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Dittrich S, Kece F, Scheurlen C, van den Bruck JH, Filipovic K, Wörmann J, Erlhöfer S, Pavel F, Schipper JH, Sultan A, Lüker J, Steven D. Implementation and first outcomes of a novel standard operating procedure for preprocedural transoesophageal echocardiography screening in course of atrial arrhythmia ablation. Europace 2023; 25:euad279. [PMID: 37713241 PMCID: PMC10516708 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Preprocedural transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) screening for left atrial (LA) thrombi is the standard of care in many centres performing atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. However, TEE imposes procedural risks for patients and is often challenging to implement in daily practice, besides causing patient discomfort. At our centre, a novel standard operating procedure (SOP) was implemented, aiming to identify patients that can be exempt from TEE screening. We aimed to assess whether this screening approach may reduce preprocedural TEEs without imposing patients of higher risks for cerebrovascular events (CVEs). METHODS AND RESULTS Data of 1874 consecutive patients treated by catheter ablation of LA arrhythmias between 2018 and 2022 were retrospectively analysed. A cohort of 937 patients, where decision to perform TEE screening was based on a new SOP (considering rhythm at admission, CHA2DS2-VASc score, and sufficient anticoagulation), was compared to a matched cohort receiving TEE before every procedure. Number of performed TEEs and incidences of CVEs were compared. Implementation of the new SOP led to a 67% reduction in TEEs performed (old SOP: 933 vs. new SOP: 305). No significant differences between the groups were detected regarding transitory ischaemic attack (old SOP: 5 vs. new SOP: 3; P = 0.48) and stroke (no events). No solid thrombi were detected during TEE screening. CONCLUSION The number of preprocedural screening TEEs before AF ablation procedures can be safely reduced by applying risk stratification based on rhythm at admission and CHA2DS2-VASc score, if anticoagulation was performed properly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Dittrich
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Fehmi Kece
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Cornelia Scheurlen
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan-Hendrik van den Bruck
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Karlo Filipovic
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jonas Wörmann
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Susanne Erlhöfer
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Friederike Pavel
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan-Hendrik Schipper
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Arian Sultan
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jakob Lüker
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Daniel Steven
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
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12
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Igarashi W, Takagi D, Okada D, Kobayashi D, Oka M, Io T, Ishii K, Ono K, Yamamoto H, Okamoto Y. Bioinformatic Identification of Potential RNA Alterations on the Atrial Fibrillation Remodeling from Human Pulmonary Veins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10501. [PMID: 37445678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent persistent arrhythmia. Many genes have been reported as a genetic background for AF. However, most transcriptome analyses of AF are limited to the atrial samples and have not been evaluated by multiple cardiac regions. In this study, we analyzed the expression levels of protein-coding and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in six cardiac regions by RNA-seq. Samples were donated from six subjects with or without persistent AF for left atria, left atrial appendages, right atria, sinoatrial nodes, left ventricles, right ventricles, and pulmonary veins (PVs), and additional four right atrial appendages samples were collected from patients undergoing mitral valve replacement. In total, 23 AF samples were compared to 23 non-AF samples. Surprisingly, the most influenced heart region in gene expression by AF was the PV, not the atria. The ion channel-related gene set was significantly enriched upon analysis of these significant genes. In addition, some significant genes are cancer-related lncRNAs in PV in AF. A co-expression network analysis could detect the functional gene clusters. In particular, the cancer-related lncRNA, such as SAMMSON and FOXCUT, belong to the gene network with the cancer-related transcription factor FOXC1. Thus, they may also play an aggravating role in the pathogenesis of AF, similar to carcinogenesis. In the least, this study suggests that (1) RNA alteration is most intense in PVs and (2) post-transcriptional gene regulation by lncRNA may contribute to the progression of AF. Through the screening analysis across the six cardiac regions, the possibility that the PV region can play a role other than paroxysmal triggering in the pathogenesis of AF was demonstrated for the first time. Future research with an increase in the number of PV samples will lead to a novel understanding of the pathophysiology of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Igarashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Daichi Takagi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Daigo Okada
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Shogoinkawahara-cho, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Daiki Kobayashi
- Department of Cell Physiology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Miho Oka
- Research Department, Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Kyutaromachi, Osaka 541-0056, Japan
| | - Toshiro Io
- Research Department, Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Kyutaromachi, Osaka 541-0056, Japan
| | - Kuniaki Ishii
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Iida-Nishi, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Kyoichi Ono
- Department of Cell Physiology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yamamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yosuke Okamoto
- Department of Cell Physiology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita 010-8543, Japan
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13
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Segan L, Nanayakkara S, Spear E, Shirwaiker A, Chieng D, Prabhu S, Sugumar H, Ling L, Kaye DM, Kalman JM, Voskoboinik A, Kistler PM. Identifying Patients at High Risk of Left Atrial Appendage Thrombus Before Cardioversion: The CLOTS-AF Score. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e029259. [PMID: 37301743 PMCID: PMC10356043 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.029259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Transesophageal echocardiography-guided direct cardioversion is recommended in patients who are inadequately anticoagulated due to perceived risk of left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT); however, LAAT risk factors remain poorly defined. Methods and Results We evaluated clinical and transthoracic echocardiographic parameters to predict LAAT risk in consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter undergoing transesophageal echocardiography before cardioversion between 2002 and 2022. Regression analysis identified predictors of LAAT, combined to create the novel CLOTS-AF risk score (comprising clinical and echocardiographic LAAT predictors), which was developed in the derivation cohort (70%) and validated in the remaining 30%. A total of 1001 patients (mean age, 62±13 years; 25% women; left ventricular ejection fraction, 49.8±14%) underwent transesophageal echocardiography, with LAAT identified in 140 of 1001 patients (14%) and dense spontaneous echo contrast precluding cardioversion in a further 75 patients (7.5%). AF duration, AF rhythm, creatinine, stroke, diabetes, and echocardiographic parameters were univariate LAAT predictors; age, female sex, body mass index, anticoagulant type, and duration were not (all P>0.05). CHADS2VASc, though significant on univariate analysis (P<0.001), was not significant after adjustment (P=0.12). The novel CLOTS-AF risk model comprised significant multivariable predictors categorized and weighted according to clinically relevant thresholds (Creatinine >1.5 mg/dL, Left ventricular ejection fraction <50%, Overload (left atrial volume index >34 mL/m2), Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TAPSE) <17 mm, Stroke, and AF rhythm). The unweighted risk model had excellent predictive performance with an area under the curve of 0.820 (95% CI, 0.752-0.887). The weighted CLOTS-AF risk score maintained good predictive performance (AUC, 0.780) with an accuracy of 72%. Conclusions The incidence of LAAT or dense spontaneous echo contrast precluding cardioversion in patients with AF who are inadequately anticoagulated is 21%. Clinical and noninvasive echocardiographic parameters may identify patients at increased risk of LAAT better managed with a suitable period of anticoagulation before undertaking cardioversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Segan
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Shane Nanayakkara
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Monash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | | | | | - David Chieng
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sandeep Prabhu
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Hariharan Sugumar
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Liang‐Han Ling
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - David M. Kaye
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Monash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Jonathan M. Kalman
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Aleksandr Voskoboinik
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Monash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Peter M. Kistler
- The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Monash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
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14
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Wong GX, Kar S, Smith TW, Spangler T, Bolling SF, Rogers JH. Transcatheter Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion: Preclinical and Early Clinical Results With the Laminar Device. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2023; 16:1347-1357. [PMID: 37294221 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcin.2023.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Laminar device rotates and closes the left atrial appendage (LAA) using an integrated ball and lock that excludes and eliminates the LAA pouch. There is a low device surface area, minimizing the risk of peridevice leak (PDL) and device-related thrombus (DRT) formation. OBJECTIVES This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of the Laminar LAA exclusion device in healthy animals and human subjects with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation at risk of ischemic stroke and systemic thromboembolism. METHODS The preclinical study implanted the Laminar device into canine subjects that underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and fluoroscopic evaluation, followed by necropsy and histological assessment at 45 and 150-days post-implant. The early clinical study implanted the device in human subjects, followed to 12 months postimplantation. Procedural success was defined as device implantation in the intended location without residual LAA leak >5 mm as seen by TEE. Safety endpoints included freedom from stroke, systemic embolism, pericardial effusion, or tamponade, life-threatening/major bleeding, or death. RESULTS The Laminar device was successfully implanted in 10 canines. In all animals at 45 days and 150 days, no PDL or DRT was found, and histological examination showed fully closed LAAs covered with neo-endocardium. The device was successfully implanted in 15 human subjects with no safety events out to 12 months postimplantation. All subjects had successful protocol-defined LAA closure without DRT at 45 days by TEE and computed tomography, which remained stable through 12 months' follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The preclinical and early clinical results demonstrate a promising safety and efficacy profile for the Laminar LAA exclusion device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon X Wong
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Saibal Kar
- Cardiovascular Associates of Los Robles Health System, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Thomas W Smith
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | | | - Steven F Bolling
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jason H Rogers
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA.
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15
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Caldarola P, De Iaco F, Pugliese FR, De Luca L, Fabbri A, Riccio C, Scicchitano P, Vanni S, Di Pasquale G, Gulizia MM, Gabrielli D, Oliva F, Colivicchi F. ANMCO-SIMEU consensus document: appropriate management of atrial fibrillation in the emergency department. Eur Heart J Suppl 2023; 25:D255-D277. [PMID: 37213798 PMCID: PMC10194824 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartjsupp/suad110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) accounts for 2% of the total presentations to the emergency department (ED) and represents the most frequent arrhythmic cause for hospitalization. It steadily increases the risk of thromboembolic events and is often associated with several comorbidities that negatively affect patient's quality of life and prognosis. AF has a considerable impact on healthcare resources, making the promotion of an adequate and coordinated management of this arrhythmia necessary in order to avoid clinical complications and to implement the adoption of appropriate technological and pharmacological treatment options. AF management varies across regions and hospitals and there is also heterogeneity in the use of anticoagulation and electric cardioversion, with limited use of direct oral anticoagulants. The ED represents the first access point for early management of patients with AF. The appropriate management of this arrhythmia in the acute setting has a great impact on improving patient's quality of life and outcomes as well as on rationalization of the financial resources related to the clinical course of AF. Therefore, physicians should provide a well-structured clinical and diagnostic pathway for patients with AF who are admitted to the ED. This should be based on a tight and propositional collaboration among several specialists, i.e. the ED physician, cardiologist, internal medicine physician, anesthesiologist. The aim of this ANMCO-SIMEU consensus document is to provide shared recommendations for promoting an integrated, accurate, and up-to-date management of patients with AF admitted to the ED or Cardiology Department, in order to make it homogeneous across the national territory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabio De Iaco
- Pronto Soccorso e Medicina d'Urgenza, A.O. Martini, Via Luigi Ferdinando Marsigli, 84 - 10141 Torino (TO), Italy
| | - Francesco Rocco Pugliese
- U.O.C. Medicina e Chirurgia d'Accettazione e d'Urgenza, Ospedale Sandro Pertini, Via dei Monti Tiburtini, 385 - 00157 Roma, Italy
| | - Leonardo De Luca
- U.O.C. di Cardiologia, Dipartimento Cardio-Toraco-Vascolare, Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Cir.ne Gianicolense, 87 - 00152 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Fabbri
- Pronto Soccorso e Medicina d'Urgenza-118, Azienda USL della Romagna, Via Carlo Forlanini, 34 - 47121 Forlì, Italy
| | - Carmine Riccio
- U.O.S.D. Follow up del Paziente Post-Acuto, Dipartimento Cardiovascolare, A.O.R.N. Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Via Ferdinando Palasciano, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Pietro Scicchitano
- U.O. Cardiologia-UTIC, Ospedale "F. Perinei", SS96 - 70022 Altamura (BA), Italy
| | - Simone Vanni
- S.O.C. Medicina d'Urgenza, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Empoli (FI) e Direttore Area Formazione, Dipartimento di Emergenza e Area Critica, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Viale Giovanni Boccaccio, 16/20, 50053 Empoli FI, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Pasquale
- Direzione Generale Cura della Persona, Salute e Welfare, Regione Emilia-Romagna, Viale Aldo Moro, 21 - 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Massimo Gulizia
- U.O.C. Cardiologia, Ospedale Garibaldi-Nesima, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e Alta Specializzazione "Garibaldi", Piazza Santa Maria di Gesù, 5 - 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico Gabrielli
- U.O.C. di Cardiologia, Dipartimento Cardio-Toraco-Vascolare, Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Cir.ne Gianicolense, 87 - 00152 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione per il Tuo cuore - Heart Care Foundation, Via Alfonso la Marmora, 36- 50121 Firenze, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Oliva
- Cardiologia 1-Emodinamica, Dipartimento Cardiotoracovascolare "A. De Gasperis", ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Piazza dell'Ospedale Maggiore, 3 - 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Furio Colivicchi
- U.O.C. Cardiologia Clinica e Riabilitativa, Presidio Ospedaliero San Filippo Neri - ASL Roma 1, Via Giovanni Martinotti, 20 - 00135 Roma, Italy
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16
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Adedara VO, Sharma V, Nawaz H, Reyes-Rivera J, Afzal-Tohid S, Pareshbhai PT, Boyapati SP, Sharafshah A. Transesophageal Echocardiogram Before Cardioversion in Atrial Fibrillation Patients. Cureus 2023; 15:e39702. [PMID: 37398783 PMCID: PMC10309076 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.39702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) offers an invaluable, non-invasive avenue for diagnosing and managing various cardiac conditions, including atrial fibrillation (AF). As the most common cardiac arrhythmia, AF affects millions and can lead to severe complications. Cardioversion, a procedure to restore the heart's normal rhythm, is frequently conducted on AF patients resistant to medication. Due to inconclusive data, TEE's utility prior to cardioversion in AF patients remains ambiguous. Understanding TEE's potential benefits and limitations in this population could significantly influence clinical practice. This review aims to scrutinize the current literature on the use of TEE before cardioversion in AF patients. The principal objective is to understand TEE's potential benefits and limitations comprehensively. The study seeks to offer a clear understanding and practical recommendations for clinical practice, thereby improving the management of AF patients before cardioversion using TEE. A literature search of databases was conducted using the keywords "Atrial Fibrillation," "Cardioversion" and "Transesophageal echocardiography," resulting in 640 articles. These were narrowed to 103 following title and abstract reviews. After applying exclusion and inclusion criteria with a quality assessment, 20 papers were included: seven retrospective studies, 12 prospective observational studies, and one randomized controlled trial (RCT). Stroke risk associated with direct-current cardioversion (DCC) potentially results from post-cardioversion atrial stunning. Thromboembolic events occur post cardioversion, with or without prior atrial thrombus or cardioversion complications. Generally, cardiac thrombus localizes in the left atrial appendage (LAA), a clear contraindication to cardioversion. Atrial sludge without LAA thrombus in TEE is a relative contraindication. TEE before electrical cardioversion (ECV) in anticoagulated AF individuals is uncommon. In AF patients planned for cardioversion, contrast enhancement facilitates thrombus exclusion in TEE images, reducing embolic events. Left atrial thrombus (LAT) frequently occurs in AF patients, necessitating TEE examination. Despite the increased use of pre-cardioversion TEE, thromboembolic events persist. Notably, patients with post-DCC thromboembolic events had no LA thrombus or LAA sludge. The use of TEE-guided DCC has grown due to its ability to detect atrial thrombi pre-cardioversion, aiding risk stratification. Thrombus in the left atrium also signals an elevated risk of future thromboembolic events in AF patients. While atrial stunning post cardioversion detected by TEE is a significant risk factor for future thromboembolic events, further evidence is required. Therapeutic anticoagulation is essential during and post cardioversion, even if no atrial thrombus is detected. Current data recommends cardioversion guided by TEE, particularly in outpatient settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor O Adedara
- Medicine, St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George's, GRD
| | - Vagisha Sharma
- Medicine, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Hassan Nawaz
- Medicine, Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan, PAK
| | | | | | | | - Sri P Boyapati
- Medicine, Siddartha Medical College, Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada, IND
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17
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Chyou JY, Barkoudah E, Dukes JW, Goldstein LB, Joglar JA, Lee AM, Lubitz SA, Marill KA, Sneed KB, Streur MM, Wong GC, Gopinathannair R. Atrial Fibrillation Occurring During Acute Hospitalization: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2023; 147:e676-e698. [PMID: 36912134 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Acute atrial fibrillation is defined as atrial fibrillation detected in the setting of acute care or acute illness; atrial fibrillation may be detected or managed for the first time during acute hospitalization for another condition. Atrial fibrillation after cardiothoracic surgery is a distinct type of acute atrial fibrillation. Acute atrial fibrillation is associated with high risk of long-term atrial fibrillation recurrence, warranting clinical attention during acute hospitalization and over long-term follow-up. A framework of substrates and triggers can be useful for evaluating and managing acute atrial fibrillation. Acute management requires a multipronged approach with interdisciplinary care collaboration, tailoring treatments to the patient's underlying substrate and acute condition. Key components of acute management include identification and treatment of triggers, selection and implementation of rate/rhythm control, and management of anticoagulation. Acute rate or rhythm control strategy should be individualized with consideration of the patient's capacity to tolerate rapid rates or atrioventricular dyssynchrony, and the patient's ability to tolerate the risk of the therapeutic strategy. Given the high risks of atrial fibrillation recurrence in patients with acute atrial fibrillation, clinical follow-up and heart rhythm monitoring are warranted. Long-term management is guided by patient substrate, with implications for intensity of heart rhythm monitoring, anticoagulation, and considerations for rhythm management strategies. Overall management of acute atrial fibrillation addresses substrates and triggers. The 3As of acute management are acute triggers, atrial fibrillation rate/rhythm management, and anticoagulation. The 2As and 2Ms of long-term management include monitoring of heart rhythm and modification of lifestyle and risk factors, in addition to considerations for atrial fibrillation rate/rhythm management and anticoagulation. Several gaps in knowledge related to acute atrial fibrillation exist and warrant future research.
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18
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Sakriss C, Roehl P, Schwenzky A, Hoyme M, Ebelt H. Transition from WATCHMAN V.2.5 to WATCHMAN FLX for closure of the left atrial appendage: echocardiographic and clinical findings. Open Heart 2023; 10:openhrt-2022-002246. [PMID: 36918230 PMCID: PMC10016248 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2022-002246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interventional closure of the left atrial appendage (LAAC) has been established as an alternative treatment for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and an elevated risk of stroke. The WATCHMAN FLX (WM FLX) as the newest WATCHMAN LAAC device differs in several technical characteristics from its precursor, the WATCHMAN V.2.5 (WM V.2.5). METHODS The data presented here are derived from a retrospective single-centre study. All patients in which an LAAC was performed between February 2017 and March 2021 with either a WM V.2.5 or WM FLX device were included. RESULTS 169 patients were included in this study, of whom 95 had been treated with WM V.2.5 and 74 with WM FLX, respectively. Directly after implantation, only minor differences regarding membrane thickness and connector protrusion were noted, whereas no relevant differences were found regarding device sizing, device compression or peridevice leakage, respectively. However, at 3-month follow-up, device compression was significantly reduced in WM FLX indicating a continued device expansion which was paralleled by a reduced number of peridevice leakage in comparison to WM V.2.5. Additionally, the combined clinical endpoint of death, stroke/transistoric ischaemic attack, tamponade, device embolisation, device-related thrombosis or peridevice leakage was reduced in WM FLX. CONCLUSION LAAC using the WM FLX device results in a continued device expansion over the first 3 months based on differences in radial force in comparison to WM V.2.5. This is accompanied by a reduction in adverse clinical endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Sakriss
- Department of Medicine II, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Catholic Hospital Erfurt, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Peter Roehl
- Department of Medicine II, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Catholic Hospital Erfurt, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Andreas Schwenzky
- Department of Medicine II, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Catholic Hospital Erfurt, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Matthias Hoyme
- Department of Medicine II, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Catholic Hospital Erfurt, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Henning Ebelt
- Department of Medicine II, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Catholic Hospital Erfurt, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
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19
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Darrat Y, Leung S, Elayi L, Parrott K, Ogunbayo G, Kotter J, Sorrell V, Gupta V, Anaya P, Morales G, Catanzarro J, Delisle B, Elayi CS. A stepwise external cardioversion protocol for atrial fibrillation to maximize acute success rate. Europace 2023; 25:828-834. [PMID: 36748366 PMCID: PMC10062296 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cardioversion is a very commonly performed procedure for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, there is no well-defined protocol to address failed external electrical direct current cardioversion. The aim of the study is to test the efficacy of a pre-defined stepwise cardioversion protocol for patients with persistent AF of ≤12 months. Success was the achievement of sinus rhythm. METHODS AND RESULTS The study population included patients with persistent AF of ≤12 months duration requiring rhythm management. Patients were offered cardioversion using a pre-defined stepwise protocol using different electrode placement locations, applying compression at end of expiration, and higher energy delivered simultaneously through two defibrillators. : A total of 414 patients were included in the study, of which 362 (87.4%) required a single successful cardioversion. The remaining 52 (12.5%) patients required additional cardioversion attempts using the stepwise cardioversion protocol with an overall success rate of 99.3%. Two simultaneous defibrillators were required in 14 patients (3.4%). Patients with multiple cardioversions (13.5%) experienced more local skin irritation and pain compared with patients with single cardioversion (13.5% vs. 3.5%, P = 0.004). The predictor for the need for multiple cardioversion attempts is high body mass index, while high transthoracic impedance is associated with failed cardioversion. No major complications were observed during the study. CONCLUSION The stepwise cardioversion protocol has a high success rate of >99% and can be safely performed in outpatient or inpatient settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Darrat
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Saint Joseph Hospital, 1401 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
| | - Steve Leung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Liliane Elayi
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Saint Joseph Hospital, 1401 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
| | - Kevin Parrott
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Baptist Health, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Gbolahan Ogunbayo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - John Kotter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Vincent Sorrell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Vedant Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Paul Anaya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Gustavo Morales
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Grandview Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - John Catanzarro
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Brian Delisle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gill Heart Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Claude S Elayi
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Saint Joseph Hospital, 1401 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
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20
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Wong GX, Singh GD. Transcatheter Left Atrial Appendage Closure. Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J 2023; 19:67-77. [PMID: 37213882 PMCID: PMC10198237 DOI: 10.14797/mdcvj.1215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia worldwide, placing a large population at risk for potentially disabling ischemic strokes, yet an estimated 50% of eligible patients cannot tolerate or are contraindicated to receive oral anticoagulation. Within the last 15 years, transcatheter options for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) have provided a valuable alternative to chronic oral anticoagulation for reducing risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. With newer generation devices such as Watchman FLX and Amulet gaining approval from the US Food and Drug Administration in recent years, several large clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of transcatheter LAAC in a population intolerant to systemic anticoagulation. In this contemporary review, we discuss the indications for transcatheter LAAC and the evidence evaluating the use of various device therapies currently available or in development. We also examine current unmet challenges in intraprocedural imaging and controversies in postimplantation antithrombotic regimens. Several ongoing seminal trials are hoping to clarify the role of transcatheter LAAC as a safe, first-line option for all patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon X. Wong
- University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, US
| | - Gagan D. Singh
- University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, US
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21
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Ohte N, Ishizu T, Izumi C, Itoh H, Iwanaga S, Okura H, Otsuji Y, Sakata Y, Shibata T, Shinke T, Seo Y, Daimon M, Takeuchi M, Tanabe K, Nakatani S, Nii M, Nishigami K, Hozumi T, Yasukochi S, Yamada H, Yamamoto K, Izumo M, Inoue K, Iwano H, Okada A, Kataoka A, Kaji S, Kusunose K, Goda A, Takeda Y, Tanaka H, Dohi K, Hamaguchi H, Fukuta H, Yamada S, Watanabe N, Akaishi M, Akasaka T, Kimura T, Kosuge M, Masuyama T. JCS 2021 Guideline on the Clinical Application of Echocardiography. Circ J 2022; 86:2045-2119. [DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-22-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Ohte
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | | | - Chisato Izumi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Hiroshi Itoh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science
| | - Shiro Iwanaga
- Department of Cardiology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center
| | - Hiroyuki Okura
- Department of Cardiology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Yasushi Sakata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Toshihiko Shibata
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Toshiro Shinke
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine
| | - Yoshihiro Seo
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Masao Daimon
- The Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University of Tokyo Hospital
| | - Masaaki Takeuchi
- Department of Laboratory and Transfusion Medicine, Hospital of University of Occupational and Environmental Health
| | - Kazuaki Tanabe
- The Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine
| | | | - Masaki Nii
- Department of Cardiology, Shizuoka Children's Hospital
| | - Kazuhiro Nishigami
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Miyuki Hospital LTAC Heart Failure Center
| | - Takeshi Hozumi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Wakayama Medical University
| | - Satoshi Yasukochi
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Heart Center, Nagano Children’s Hospital
| | - Hirotsugu Yamada
- Department of Community Medicine for Cardiology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
| | - Kazuhiro Yamamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University
| | - Masaki Izumo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Marianna University School of Medicine
| | - Katsuji Inoue
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Hypertension & Nephrology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Atsushi Okada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | | | - Shuichiro Kaji
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kansai Electric Power Hospital
| | - Kenya Kusunose
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital
| | - Akiko Goda
- Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine
| | - Yasuharu Takeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hidekazu Tanaka
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kaoru Dohi
- Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Hidekatsu Fukuta
- Core Laboratory, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Satoshi Yamada
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center
| | - Nozomi Watanabe
- Department of Cardiology, Miyazaki Medical Association Hospital Cardiovascular Center
| | | | - Takashi Akasaka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Wakayama Medical University
| | - Takeshi Kimura
- Department of Cardiology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Masami Kosuge
- Division of Cardiology, Yokohama City University Medical Center
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22
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Degiovanni A, Carassia C, De Vecchi S, Erbetta R, Patti G. Atrial thrombosis: Not only left, think also about right! JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2022; 50:1194-1201. [PMID: 36218213 PMCID: PMC9828340 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in the general population. Systemic thromboembolism from left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis is a well-known complication of AF, whereas thromboembolic complications from a right atrial (RA) thrombus are infrequent. Nevertheless, the prevalence of RA thrombosis is debated; despite having a low prevalence in echocardiographic studies, the higher prevalence found in autoptic studies rises the hypothesis of an under detection of RA clots, possibly related to the limited evaluation of right atrial appendage (RAA) with non-invasive imaging. Here we present a review of the current literature about RA thrombosis, regarding its diagnosis, differentials, and best treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Degiovanni
- Department of Translational MedicineUniversity of Piemonte OrientaleNovaraItaly
- Department of Thoracic, Heart and Vascular DiseasesMaggiore della Carità HospitalNovaraItaly
| | - Claudia Carassia
- Department of Translational MedicineUniversity of Piemonte OrientaleNovaraItaly
- Department of Thoracic, Heart and Vascular DiseasesMaggiore della Carità HospitalNovaraItaly
| | - Simona De Vecchi
- Department of Thoracic, Heart and Vascular DiseasesMaggiore della Carità HospitalNovaraItaly
| | - Riccardo Erbetta
- Department of Thoracic, Heart and Vascular DiseasesMaggiore della Carità HospitalNovaraItaly
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Department of Translational MedicineUniversity of Piemonte OrientaleNovaraItaly
- Department of Thoracic, Heart and Vascular DiseasesMaggiore della Carità HospitalNovaraItaly
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23
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Quintana RA, Dong T, Vajapey R, Reyaldeen R, Kwon DH, Harb S, Wang TKM, Klein AL. Preprocedural Multimodality Imaging in Atrial Fibrillation. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2022; 15:e014386. [PMID: 36256725 DOI: 10.1161/circimaging.122.014386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide and is associated with increased risk of heart failure, stroke, and death. In current medical practice, multimodality imaging is routinely used in the management of AF. Twenty-one years ago, the ACUTE trial (Assessment of Cardioversion Using Transesophageal Echocardiography) results were published, and the management of AF changed forever by incorporating transesophageal echocardiography guided cardioversion of patients in AF for the first time. Current applications of multimodality imaging in AF in 2022 include the use of transesophageal echocardiography and computed tomography before cardioversion to exclude left atrial thrombus and in left atrial appendage occlusion device implantation. Transesophageal echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance are clinically used for AF ablation planning. The decision to use a particular imaging modality in AF is based on patient's characteristics, guideline recommendation, institutional preferences, expertise, and cost. In this first of 2-part review series, we discuss the preprocedural role of echocardiography, computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance in the AF, with regard to their clinical applications, relevant outcomes data and unmet needs, and highlights future directions in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymundo A Quintana
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO (R.A.Q.)
| | - Tiffany Dong
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Ramya Vajapey
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Reza Reyaldeen
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Deborah H Kwon
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Serge Harb
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Tom Kai Ming Wang
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
| | - Allan L Klein
- Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Diseases, Section of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH (T.D., R.V., R.R., D.H.K., S.H., T.K.M.W., A.L.K.)
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24
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Kamada H, Mori K, Ueda N, Wakamiya A, Nakajima K, Kamakura T, Wada M, Ishibashi K, Yamagata K, Inoue Y, Miyamoto K, Nagase S, Noda T, Izumi C, Noguchi T, Kusano K, Aiba T. Impact of Pre-Ablation Direct Current Cardioversion for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation to Predict Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation after Catheter Ablation. Int Heart J 2022; 63:828-836. [DOI: 10.1536/ihj.22-135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kamada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kazuki Mori
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center
| | - Nobuhiko Ueda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Akinori Wakamiya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kenzaburo Nakajima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Tsukasa Kamakura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Mitsuru Wada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kohei Ishibashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kenichiro Yamagata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Yuko Inoue
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Koji Miyamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Satoshi Nagase
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Takashi Noda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Chisato Izumi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Teruo Noguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kengo Kusano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Takeshi Aiba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
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25
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Marques T, Darrieux F, Gouvêa F, Garambone L, Lindoso AP, Lage J, Sacilotto L, Coimbra AL, Pinheiro M, Olivetti N, Lara S, Hardy C, Athayde G, Hachul D, Pisani C, Wu TC, Scanavacca M. Trombo Atrial Esquerdo e Contraste Espontâneo Denso no Uso de Anticoagulante Oral de Ação Direta em Fibrilação Atrial: Visão de Centro Referenciado. Arq Bras Cardiol 2022; 119:514-519. [PMID: 36169450 PMCID: PMC9563890 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20210658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fundamento Objetivo Métodos Resultados Conclusão
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26
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Um KJ, McIntyre WF, Mendoza PA, Ibrahim O, Nguyen ST, Lin SH, Duceppe E, Rochwerg B, Healey JS, Koziarz A, Lengyel AP, Bhatnagar A, Amit G, Chu VA, Whitlock RP, Belley-Côté EP. Pre-treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs for elective electrical cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Europace 2022; 24:1548-1559. [PMID: 35654763 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Our objective was to compare the efficacy of pre-treatment with different classes of anti-arrhythmic drugs (AADs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing electrical cardioversion. METHODS AND RESULTS We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different AADs in patients with AF undergoing electrical cardioversion. We grouped AADs into five network nodes: no treatment or rate control, Class Ia, Class Ic, Class III, and amiodarone. Outcomes were (i) acute restoration and (ii) maintenance of sinus rhythm. We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception until June 2020. We used Python 3.8.3 and R 3.6.2 for data analysis. We evaluated the overall certainty of evidence with the GRADE framework. We included 28 RCTs. Compared with no treatment or rate control, Class III AADs [odds ratio (OR): 2.41; 95% credible interval (CrI): 1.37 to 4.62, high certainty] and amiodarone (OR: 2.58; 95% CrI: 1.54 to 4.37, high certainty) improved restoration of sinus rhythm. Amiodarone improved long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm when compared with no treatment or rate control (OR: 5.37; 95% CrI: 4.00-7.39, high certainty), Class Ic (OR: 1.89; 95% CrI: 1.05-3.45, moderate certainty) and Class III AADs (OR: 2.19; 95% CrI: 1.39-3.26, high certainty). CONCLUSION Before electrical cardioversion of AF, treatment with Class III AADs or amiodarone improves the acute restoration of sinus rhythm. Amiodarone is most likely to improve the maintenance of sinus rhythm after electrical cardioversion, but Class Ic and Class III AADs are also effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Um
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - William F McIntyre
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Pablo A Mendoza
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Omar Ibrahim
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Stephanie T Nguyen
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Sabrina H Lin
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Emmanuelle Duceppe
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Bram Rochwerg
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Jeff S Healey
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Alex Koziarz
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Alexandra P Lengyel
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Akash Bhatnagar
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Guy Amit
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Victor A Chu
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Richard P Whitlock
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Emilie P Belley-Côté
- McMaster University, David Braley Cardiac, Vascular, and Stroke Research Institute, 237 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
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27
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Nuñez-Garcia JC, Sánchez-Puente A, Sampedro-Gómez J, Vicente-Palacios V, Jiménez-Navarro M, Oterino-Manzanas A, Jiménez-Candil J, Dorado-Diaz PI, Sánchez PL. Outcome Analysis in Elective Electrical Cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation Patients: Development and Validation of a Machine Learning Prognostic Model. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11092636. [PMID: 35566761 PMCID: PMC9101912 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The integrated approach to electrical cardioversion (EC) in atrial fibrillation (AF) is complex; candidates can resolve spontaneously while waiting for EC, and post-cardioversion recurrence is high. Thus, it is especially interesting to avoid the programming of EC in patients who would restore sinus rhythm (SR) spontaneously or present early recurrence. We have analyzed the whole elective EC of the AF process using machine-learning (ML) in order to enable a more realistic and detailed simulation of the patient flow for decision making purposes. Methods: The dataset consisted of electronic health records (EHRs) from 429 consecutive AF patients referred for EC. For analysis of the patient outcome, we considered five pathways according to restoring and maintaining SR: (i) spontaneous SR restoration, (ii) pharmacologic-cardioversion, (iii) direct-current cardioversion, (iv) 6-month AF recurrence, and (v) 6-month rhythm control. We applied ML classifiers for predicting outcomes at each pathway and compared them with the CHA2DS2-VASc and HATCH scores. Results: With the exception of pathway (iii), all ML models achieved improvements in comparison with CHA2DS2-VASc or HATCH scores (p < 0.01). Compared to the most competitive score, the area under the ROC curve (AUC-ROC) was: 0.80 vs. 0.66 for predicting (i); 0.71 vs. 0.55 for (ii); 0.64 vs. 0.52 for (iv); and 0.66 vs. 0.51 for (v). For a threshold considered optimal, the empirical net reclassification index was: +7.8%, +47.2%, +28.2%, and +34.3% in favor of our ML models for predicting outcomes for pathways (i), (ii), (iv), and (v), respectively. As an example tool of generalizability of ML models, we deployed our algorithms in an open-source calculator, where the model would personalize predictions. Conclusions: An ML model improves the accuracy of restoring and maintaining SR predictions over current discriminators. The proposed approach enables a detailed simulation of the patient flow through personalized predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean C. Nuñez-Garcia
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
| | - Antonio Sánchez-Puente
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- CIBERCV (Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, C/Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.S.-P.); (P.L.S.); Tel.: +34-92-329-1100 (ext. 55738) (P.L.S.)
| | - Jesús Sampedro-Gómez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- CIBERCV (Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, C/Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor Vicente-Palacios
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- Philips Healthcare, 28050 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Jiménez-Navarro
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Virgen de la Victoria—IBIMA, 29010 Malaga, Spain;
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
| | - Armando Oterino-Manzanas
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
| | - Javier Jiménez-Candil
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- CIBERCV (Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, C/Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - P. Ignacio Dorado-Diaz
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- CIBERCV (Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, C/Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro L. Sánchez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca—IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (J.C.N.-G.); (J.S.-G.); (V.V.-P.); (A.O.-M.); (J.J.-C.); (P.I.D.-D.)
- CIBERCV (Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, C/Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.S.-P.); (P.L.S.); Tel.: +34-92-329-1100 (ext. 55738) (P.L.S.)
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Ono K, Iwasaki YK, Akao M, Ikeda T, Ishii K, Inden Y, Kusano K, Kobayashi Y, Koretsune Y, Sasano T, Sumitomo N, Takahashi N, Niwano S, Hagiwara N, Hisatome I, Furukawa T, Honjo H, Maruyama T, Murakawa Y, Yasaka M, Watanabe E, Aiba T, Amino M, Itoh H, Ogawa H, Okumura Y, Aoki-Kamiya C, Kishihara J, Kodani E, Komatsu T, Sakamoto Y, Satomi K, Shiga T, Shinohara T, Suzuki A, Suzuki S, Sekiguchi Y, Nagase S, Hayami N, Harada M, Fujino T, Makiyama T, Maruyama M, Miake J, Muraji S, Murata H, Morita N, Yokoshiki H, Yoshioka K, Yodogawa K, Inoue H, Okumura K, Kimura T, Tsutsui H, Shimizu W. JCS/JHRS 2020 Guideline on Pharmacotherapy of Cardiac Arrhythmias. Circ J 2022; 86:1790-1924. [DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-20-1212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu-ki Iwasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School
| | - Masaharu Akao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center
| | - Takanori Ikeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kuniaki Ishii
- Department of Pharmacology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine
| | - Yasuya Inden
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kengo Kusano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Yoshinori Kobayashi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Tokai University Hachioji Hospital
| | | | - Tetsuo Sasano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Naokata Sumitomo
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center
| | - Naohiko Takahashi
- Department of Cardiology and Clinical Examination, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University
| | - Shinichi Niwano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Tetsushi Furukawa
- Department of Bio-information Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Haruo Honjo
- Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University
| | - Toru Maruyama
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital
| | - Yuji Murakawa
- The 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Mizonokuchi Hospital
| | - Masahiro Yasaka
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyushu Medical Center
| | - Eiichi Watanabe
- Department of Cardiology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine
| | - Takeshi Aiba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Mari Amino
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine
| | - Hideki Itoh
- Division of Patient Safety, Hiroshima University Hospital
| | - Hisashi Ogawa
- Department of Cardiology, National Hospital Organisation Kyoto Medical Center
| | - Yasuo Okumura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine
| | - Chizuko Aoki-Kamiya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Jun Kishihara
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine
| | - Eitaro Kodani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School Tama Nagayama Hospital
| | - Takashi Komatsu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Tsuyoshi Shiga
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The Jikei University School of Medicine
| | - Tetsuji Shinohara
- Department of Cardiology and Clinical Examination, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University
| | - Atsushi Suzuki
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University
| | - Shinya Suzuki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Cardiovascular Institute
| | - Yukio Sekiguchi
- Department of Cardiology, National Hospital Organization Kasumigaura Medical Center
| | - Satoshi Nagase
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Noriyuki Hayami
- Department of Fourth Internal Medicine, Teikyo University Mizonokuchi Hospital
| | | | - Tadashi Fujino
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University, Faculty of Medicine
| | - Takeru Makiyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University
| | - Mitsunori Maruyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital
| | - Junichiro Miake
- Department of Pharmacology, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine
| | - Shota Muraji
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center
| | | | - Norishige Morita
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Tokai University Hachioji Hospital
| | - Hisashi Yokoshiki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Sapporo City General Hospital
| | - Koichiro Yoshioka
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine
| | - Kenji Yodogawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School
| | | | - Ken Okumura
- Division of Cardiology, Saiseikai Kumamoto Hospital Cardiovascular Center
| | - Takeshi Kimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University
| | - Hiroyuki Tsutsui
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University
| | - Wataru Shimizu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School
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Incidence and predictors of left atrial appendage thrombus on transesophageal echocardiography before elective cardioversion. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3671. [PMID: 35256621 PMCID: PMC8901763 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07428-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Guidelines recommend transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before cardioversion in thrombogenic arrhythmias when the requirement of ≥ 3 weeks of anticoagulation is not met. Current data to support this approach, especially with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC), are scarce. We analyzed consecutive elective pre-cardioversion TEE in a high-volume electrophysiology center for the occurrence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombi or reduced LAA flow velocity. Possible predictors were recorded and compared in a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Consecutive pre-cardioversion TEE in 512 patients (148 female, median age 69 years) were included. In all patients, indication for TEE was either intake of anticoagulation < 3 weeks before cardioversion or uncertain adherence to the prescribed anticoagulation regimen. Of the 512 TEE, 19 (3.7%) depicted a LAA thrombus. An additional 41 patients (8.0%) showed either a reduced LAA flow velocity (≤ 20 cm/s), LAA sludge, or both. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, QRS width on admission 12-lead ECG emerged as a possible predictor of LAA thrombus and reduced LAA flow (p = 0.008). Noteworthy, a high CHA2DS2-VASc score was not associated with an increased risk of reduced LAA emptying velocity and LAA thrombi were even found in patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 0 (n = 1) and 1 (n = 1). The presence of LAA thrombus before an elective cardioversion is a rare event in the age of direct oral anticoagulants. However, LAA thrombi occurred even in supposed low-risk individuals according to the CHA2DS2-VASc score. QRS width may aid in identifying patients at risk of reduced LAA flow velocity.
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Sakhnini A, Carasso S, Znait ZA, Amjad S, Grossman L, Marai I. Does Duration of Symptoms Reliably Predict Detection of Left Atrial Thrombus in Newly Diagnosed Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2021; 14:20200481. [PMID: 34950371 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.20200481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Large prospective trials attribute minimal thromboembolic risk for cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) when duration of symptoms is shorter than 48 hours. Our goal is to compare the prevalence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus as demonstrated by a Trans esophageal echocardiography (TEE) exam between patients presenting with less or more than 48 hours of AF symptoms. Methods Observational cohort study including consecutive patients hospitalized with primary diagnosis of new onset AF, not previously treated with oral anticoagulation. All patients underwent TEE to exclude LAA thrombus, regardless of symptoms duration. Patients were divided into two groups based on AF duration: 1) early presenters: up to 48 hours, 2) later presenters: longer than 48 hours. Results The study included 122 patients mean age 65.8 years). The "early presenters" were younger, with less co-morbidities. LAA thrombus was detected in 13(21%) of 62 early presenters, compared to 20 (33%) of 60 patients of the second group (P=0.12). Significant predictors of LAA thrombus in the whole cohort by univariate analysis were ≥65 years of age (1.051, P=0.017), acute heart failure (2.394, P=0.038), and history of coronary artery/ peripheral vascular disease (2.7, P= 0.019). Notably neither duration of symptoms nor CHA2DS2-VASc score significantly predicted LAA thrombus. Inmultivariate analysis, only age ≥65 was found to be a significant predictor of LAA thrombus. Conclusions LAA thrombus in patients presenting within 48 hours of AF symptoms onset is not uncommon. Duration of symptoms is not reliable for excluding LAA thrombus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Sakhnini
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Shemy Carasso
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Zyad Abu Znait
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Shalabi Amjad
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Lisa Grossman
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Ibrahim Marai
- Cardiovascular Department, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Lower Galilee, Israel.,The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
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Zhu X, Wang Z, Ferrari MW, Ferrari‐Kuehne K, Bulter J, Xu X, Zhou Q, Zhang Y, Zhang J. Anticoagulation in cardiomyopathy: unravelling the hidden threat and challenging the threat individually. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:4737-4750. [PMID: 34498416 PMCID: PMC8712898 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyopathy comprises a heterogeneous group of myocardial abnormalities, structural or functional in nature, in the absence of coronary artery disease and other abnormal loading conditions. These myocardial pathologies can result in premature death or disability from progressive heart failure, arrhythmia, stroke, or other embolic events. The European Cardiomyopathy Registry reports a high stroke risk in cardiomyopathy patients ranging from 2.1% to 4.5%, as well as high prevalence of atrial fibrillation ranging from 14.0% to 48.5%. There is a growing interest in evaluating the risk of thromboembolism depending on the type of cardiomyopathy, as well as if anticoagulation is indicated in patients with cardiomyopathy without atrial fibrillation. Data available do not unequivocally support anticoagulation therapy in all of these patients; the management of these patients remains challenging. Many published reports pertaining to the risk of thromboembolism and consecutive treatment strategies mainly focus on single cardiomyopathy subtype. We summarize essential pathophysiological knowledge and review current literature associated with thromboembolism in various cardiomyopathy subtypes, providing recommendations for the diagnostic evaluation as well as clinical management strategies in this field. Certain cardiomyopathy subtypes require anticoagulation independent of atrial fibrillation or CHA2 DS2 -VASc score. Despite the scarcity of evidence regarding the choice of anticoagulation regimen (vitamin K antagonist vs. non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants) in cardiomyopathy, it is discussed and reviewed in this article. Each patient should receive a tailored strategy based on thorough clinical evaluation, published evidence, and clinical experience, due to the current recommendations mostly developed on small-sample studies or empirical evidence. The future research priorities in this area are also addressed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaogang Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Fu Xing HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhenhua Wang
- Department of CardiologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityQuanzhouChina
| | - Markus W. Ferrari
- Clinic of Internal Medicine 1, HSKClinic of the City of Wiesbaden and the HELIOS GroupWiesbadenGermany
| | | | - Javed Bulter
- Department of MedicineUniversity of MississippiJacksonMSUSA
| | - Xiuying Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Tiantan HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Quanzhong Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The Center for Medical Imaging of Guizhou ProvinceAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiChina
| | - Yuhui Zhang
- Heart Failure Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College167 Beilishi RdBeijing100037China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Heart Failure Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College167 Beilishi RdBeijing100037China
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Vincenti A, Porcu L, Sonaglioni A, Genovesi S. Proposal for a clinical and an echocardiographic score for prediction of left atrial thrombosis in atrial fibrillation patients undergoing early electrical cardioversion. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14706. [PMID: 34363727 PMCID: PMC9286836 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Left atrial thrombosis (LAT) is usually detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The aim of the present study was to identify clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with left atrial thrombosis in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients undergoing early electrical cardioversion (ECV) in order to create scores that can predict LAT, in a non-invasive way. METHODS A consecutive cohort of patients with persistent AF scheduled for ECV was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography and TEE. By a logistic regression model, variables significantly associated with LAT were assessed and introduced in predictive models to develop both a clinical and an echocardiographic prediction score for the presence of LAT. RESULTS In total, 125 patients [median 71 (range 49-88) years, 60.0% males] were enrolled. Transesophageal echocardiography showed LAT in 35 patients (28%). The clinical variables significantly associated with LAT were previous stroke (OR = 4.17), higher CHA2 DS2 -VASc score (OR = 1.93), lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR = 0.80), and higher brain natriuretic peptide levels (OR = 1.44). Among echocardiographic parameters, E/e' ratio was directly associated with LAT (OR = 2.25), while an inverse correlation was detected with left ventricular ejection fraction (OR = 0.43) and total global left atrial strain (OR = 0.59). Two prediction scores (clinical and echocardiographic) were developed. The positive predictive values of the clinical and the echocardiographic score were 80% and 100%, respectively, while the negative predictive values were 98% and 94%, respectively. Combined use of the scores reached a positive and negative predictive value of 100%. CONCLUSIONS When providing concordant information the two scores are able to correctly identify patients with or without LAT. An external validation is necessary to demonstrate their usefulness in the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vincenti
- Department of CardiologyOspedale San Giuseppe, MultiMedica IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Luca Porcu
- Department of OncologyIstituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Andrea Sonaglioni
- Department of CardiologyOspedale San Giuseppe, MultiMedica IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Simonetta Genovesi
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano ‐ BicoccaMilanItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural, and Metabolic SciencesIstituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCSMilanItaly
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Association of COVID-19 infection with large thrombi in left and right atrial appendages. Egypt Heart J 2021; 73:81. [PMID: 34529187 PMCID: PMC8443918 DOI: 10.1186/s43044-021-00207-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple intra-atrial thrombi are found rarely except in the presence of prosthetic valves, intra-cardiac devices, structural connections like foramen ovale and thrombophilia. Case presentation We reported acute thrombosis formation in right and left atrial appendages of a 66-year old man admitted due to progressive dyspnea since 7 days earlier. He had a history of prior laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma, apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and atrial fibrillation (AF). Infection with COVID-19 was confirmed thereafter. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR) suggested the diagnosis of atrial clot superior to neoplasm. After surgical removal of the thrombi, symptoms as well as imaging features of pneumonia were resolved. Conclusions We should focus on different presentations and complications of systemic inflammation especially in the setting of COVID-19 infection. Although risk factors of thrombosis are present in some of these patients, rapid progression as well as unusual types of involvement may indicate to a new trigger.
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Lucà F, Giubilato S, Di Fusco SA, Piccioni L, Rao CM, Iorio A, Cipolletta L, D’Elia E, Gelsomino S, Rossini R, Colivicchi F, Gulizia MM. Anticoagulation in Atrial Fibrillation Cardioversion: What Is Crucial to Take into Account. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3212. [PMID: 34361996 PMCID: PMC8348761 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic dilemma between rhythm and rate control in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) is still unresolved and electrical or pharmacological cardioversion (CV) frequently represents a useful strategy. The most recent guidelines recommend anticoagulation according to individual thromboembolic risk. Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) have been routinely used to prevent thromboembolic events. Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) represent a significant advance due to their more predictable therapeutic effect and more favorable hemorrhagic risk profile. In hemodynamically unstable patients, an emergency electrical cardioversion (ECV) must be performed. In this situation, intravenous heparin or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) should be administered before CV. In patients with AF occurring within less than 48 h, synchronized direct ECV should be the elective procedure, as it restores sinus rhythm quicker and more successfully than pharmacological cardioversion (PCV) and is associated with shorter length of hospitalization. Patients with acute onset AF were traditionally considered at lower risk of thromboembolic events due to the shorter time for atrial thrombus formation. In patients with hemodynamic stability and AF for more than 48 h, an ECV should be planned after at least 3 weeks of anticoagulation therapy. Alternatively, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) to rule out left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT) should be performed, followed by ECV and anticoagulation for at least 4 weeks. Theoretically, the standardized use of TEE before CV allows a better stratification of thromboembolic risk, although data available to date are not univocal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Lucà
- Division of Cardiology, Big Metropolitan Hospital, Bianchi Melacrino Morelli, 89129 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Simona Giubilato
- Division of Cardiology, Cannizzaro Hospital, 95121 Catania, Italy;
| | | | - Laura Piccioni
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Departiment, Civile Giuseppe Mazzini Hospital, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Carmelo Massimiliano Rao
- Division of Cardiology, Big Metropolitan Hospital, Bianchi Melacrino Morelli, 89129 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Annamaria Iorio
- Division of Cardiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (A.I.); (E.D.)
| | - Laura Cipolletta
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Ancona University Hospital, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Emilia D’Elia
- Division of Cardiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (A.I.); (E.D.)
| | - Sandro Gelsomino
- Cardiothoracic Department, Maastricht University Hospital, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Roberta Rossini
- Division of Cardiology, S. Croce e Carle Hospital, 12100 Cuneo, Italy;
| | - Furio Colivicchi
- Division of Cardiology, S. Filippo Neri Hospital, 00135 Roma, Italy; (S.A.D.F.); (F.C.)
| | - Michele Massimo Gulizia
- Division of Cardiology, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Heart Care Foundation, 50121 Florence, Italy
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35
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Volovchenko AN, Andreev DA, Mesitskaya DF. Direct oral anticoagulants for electrical cardioversion. КАРДИОВАСКУЛЯРНАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ И ПРОФИЛАКТИКА 2021. [DOI: 10.15829/1728-8800-2021-2939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The article discusses the issues of anticoagulant preparation for elective electrical cardioversion in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. Updated preparation regimens for electrical cardioversion are proposed, as well as the potential of using direct oral anticoagulants for this purpose is discussed.
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Lozier MR, Sanchez AM, Mihos CG. A systematic review on the use of ultrasound enhancing agents with transesophageal echocardiography to assess the left atrial appendage prior to cardioversion. Echocardiography 2021; 38:1414-1421. [PMID: 34212409 DOI: 10.1111/echo.15150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of the left atrium and atrial appendage (LAA) for thrombus by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) may be suboptimal due to difficult imaging windows and ultrasound artifacts. The present study analyzed the benefit of using ultrasound enhancing agents (UEAs) with TEE to improve diagnostic accuracy and image quality. METHODS A systematic review of studies published through December 2020 was performed, and included investigations comparing the number of cases deemed indeterminate for visualization of LAA thrombi on TEE pre- versus post-UEAs prior to cardioversion for atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF). Study results were pooled where the number of indeterminate cases by conventional TEE were re-classified as thrombus present, indeterminate, or thrombus excluded following administration of UEAs. RESULTS Three studies with a total of 399 patients were identified. Of these, 83 (26%) participants met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the study population from the three studies was 66 ± 12 years, 29% were female, and prevalence of congestive heart failure or neurologic events was 22% and 5%, respectively. Use of UEAs with TEE re-classified 66% (55/83) of cases initially deemed to be indeterminate for LAA thrombus on conventional TEE. Thrombus was present in 13% (11/83) and excluded in 53% (44/83) of cases; 34% (28/83) of cases remained indeterminate on TEE post-UEAs. There were no complications reported with the administration of UEAs. CONCLUSION Adjunctive use of UEAs with TEE can facilitate the diagnosis or exclusion of LAA thrombus, and improve the procedural confidence and cost-efficiency of cardioversion for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Lozier
- Mount Sinai Heart Institute, Columbia University Division of Cardiology, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
| | | | - Christos G Mihos
- Echocardiography Laboratory, Mount Sinai Heart Institute, Columbia University Division of Cardiology, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
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37
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Brandes A, Crijns HJGM, Rienstra M, Kirchhof P, Grove EL, Pedersen KB, Van Gelder IC. Cardioversion of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter revisited: current evidence and practical guidance for a common procedure. Europace 2021; 22:1149-1161. [PMID: 32337542 PMCID: PMC7399700 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardioversion is widely used in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter when a rhythm control strategy is pursued. We sought to summarize the current evidence on this important area of clinical management of patients with AF including electrical and pharmacological cardioversion, peri-procedural anticoagulation and thromboembolic complications, success rate, and risk factors for recurrence to give practical guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Brandes
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Corresponding author. Tel: +45 30 43 36 50. E-mail address:
| | - Harry J G M Crijns
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, UHB and Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals, NHS Trusts, Birmingham, UK
| | - Erik L Grove
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kenneth Bruun Pedersen
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Isabelle C Van Gelder
- Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Cappato R, Ezekowitz MD, Hohnloser SH, Meng IL, Wosnitza M, Camm AJ. Predictors of sinus rhythm 6 weeks after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: a pre-planned post hoc analysis of the X-VeRT trial. Europace 2021; 23:1539-1547. [PMID: 34128075 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Using a pre-planned post hoc analysis of patients included in X-VeRT, we evaluated predictors of sinus rhythm at 6 weeks after planned cardioversion. METHODS AND RESULTS Receiver operating characteristic curves and logistic regression models were used to evaluate continuous and categorical variables as predictors of sinus rhythm 6 at weeks from cardioversion (end of study). The primary analysis was performed in successfully cardioverted patients with an evaluable electrocardiogram at end of study. A second analysis evaluated additional patients who spontaneously restored sinus rhythm before planned cardioversion. Of the 1504 patients with atrial fibrillation of >48 h or of unknown duration who were randomly assigned to either rivaroxaban or vitamin K antagonist, 1039 (64.6 ± 10.3 years, 73.4% male) underwent planned cardioversion and were included in this study. Patients receiving early cardioversion (i.e. between 1 and 5 days from hospitalization) had a 67% higher probability to have sinus rhythm at end of study than those who received delayed cardioversion (i.e. between 21 and 56 days from hospitalization) [odds ratio (OR) 1.67, confidence interval (CI) 1.27-2.18; P < 0.0001]. In a multivariate analysis of 17 baseline variables, patients with a CHADS2 score of 0 were 33% less likely to be in sinus rhythm than those with a CHADS2 score ≥2 (OR 0.66, CI 0.47-0.94; P = 0.0225). In the secondary analysis, spontaneous restoration of sinus rhythm was also found to predict sinus rhythm at end of study (OR 8.62, CI 1.54-48.16; P = 0.0142). CONCLUSION In X-VeRT, early cardioversion and high CHADS2 scores predicted sinus rhythm at 6 weeks from cardioversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Cappato
- Arrhythmia & Electrophysiology Center, IRCCS Gruppo MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael D Ezekowitz
- The Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and Lankenau Heart Center and Bryn Mawr Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stefan H Hohnloser
- Division of Clinical Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology, J.W. Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | | | - Arthur John Camm
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
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Migliore F, Providencia R, Farkowski MM, Dan GA, Daniel S, Potpara TS, Jubele K, Chun JKR, de Asmundis C, Zorzi A, Boveda S. Antithrombotic treatment management in low stroke risk patients undergoing cardioversion of atrial fibrillation <48 h duration: results of an EHRA survey. Europace 2021; 23:1502-1507. [PMID: 33990842 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Data supporting the safety of cardioversion (CV) of atrial fibrillation (AF) without anticoagulation in patients with AF duration <48 h are scarce. Observational studies suggest that the risk of stroke in these patients is very low when the definite duration of the AF episode is of <48 h and the clinical risk profile as estimated through the CHA2DS2VASc score is low (a score of 0 for men and 1 for women). As the recent 2020 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines indication for this clinical scenario is based mainly on consensus, we sent out a survey to assess the current clinical practice on anticoagulation prior to and post-CV in patients with AF <24-48 h duration and low stroke risk across centres in Europe. Of the 136 respondents, half were affiliated to university hospitals (68/136; 50%). Non-university hospitals (50/136; 36%) and private hospitals (2/136; 1.4%) accounted over a third of respondents. The main findings of our survey were (i) heterogeneity in the anticoagulation management both before and post-CV in low stroke-risk patients with AF <48 h, (ii) higher utilization of periprocedural low-molecular-weight heparin than of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant, (iii) higher utilization of pre-CV transoesophageal echocardiography for electrical CV than for pharmacological CV regardless of the duration of AF, (iv) high adherence to a 4-week post-CV oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy, mainly for electrical CV, and finally, (v) perceived higher acceptance of lack of post-CV OAC therapy in patients with <24 h than 24-48 h episode duration. The results obtained in this survey highlight the need for more research providing definitive clarification on the safety of CV without anticoagulation in patients with short duration AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Migliore
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via N. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Rui Providencia
- Barts Heart Centre, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.,Institute of Health Informatics Research, University College of London, London, UK
| | - Michal M Farkowski
- II Department of Heart Arrhythmia, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Georghe Andrei Dan
- Carol Davila' University of Medicine, Colentina University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Scherr Daniel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Tatjana S Potpara
- Serbia School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.,Department for Intensive Care in Cardiac Arrhythmias, Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristine Jubele
- P.Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Julian K R Chun
- CCB, Cardiology, Med. Klinik III, Markuskrankenhaus Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Carlo de Asmundis
- Heart Rhythm Management Centre, Postgraduate Program in Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via N. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Serge Boveda
- Heart Rhythm Management Centre, Postgraduate Program in Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.,Heart Rhythm Department, Clinique Pasteur, 31076 Toulouse, France
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40
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Jackson LR, Jackson KP, Thomas KL. Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion: A review of current devices, clinical evidence, patient selection, and post procedural antithrombotic management. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2021; 66:92-100. [PMID: 34332665 PMCID: PMC9899495 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is a major driver of increased morbidity and mortality in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). While systemic oral anticoagulation (OAC) continues to be the mainstay for stroke reduction therapy in patients with NVAF, several barriers prevent the sustained long-term use of OAC, including increased risk of bleeding, non-compliance, cost, drug-drug interactions, and the need for ongoing laboratory testing. Given the need for continued stroke reduction therapies in patients who are intolerant of or non-compliant with OAC, percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion (LAAO) has emerged as a nonpharmacologic alternative to OAC. The development of percutaneous LAAO techniques is based on data suggesting that more than 90% of thrombi in patients with NVAF originate in the LAA. Two percutaneous LAAO devices are currently in widespread clinical use: Watchman (United States and Europe) and the Amplatzer type of devices (Europe); randomized trial data exist only for the Watchman device. Multiple randomized and nonrandomized trials and registries have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of LAAO in patients who are suitable for short-term anticoagulation using a variety of post-procedural antithrombotic strategies. Ongoing randomized clinical trials on LAAO are focused on OAC-ineligible patients to compare efficacy of LAAO devices against a multitude of antithrombotic options. This review aims to discuss the rationale and evidence for LAAO and post procedural antithrombotic strategies and opportunities for research examination. In addition, we discuss the need for continued investigation of LAAO in populations not well represented in clinical trials or registries, including women, older patients, and underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry R Jackson
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States of America; Duke Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States of America.
| | - Kevin P Jackson
- Duke Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Kevin L Thomas
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States of America; Duke Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States of America
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41
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Hindricks G, Potpara T, Dagres N, Arbelo E, Bax JJ, Blomström-Lundqvist C, Boriani G, Castella M, Dan GA, Dilaveris PE, Fauchier L, Filippatos G, Kalman JM, Meir ML, Lane DA, Lebeau JP, Lettino M, Lip GY, Pinto FJ, Neil Thomas G, Valgimigli M, Van Gelder IC, Van Putte BP, Watkins CL. Guía ESC 2020 sobre el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la fibrilación auricular, desarrollada en colaboración de la European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS). Rev Esp Cardiol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.recesp.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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42
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Migdady I, Russman A, Buletko AB. Atrial Fibrillation and Ischemic Stroke: A Clinical Review. Semin Neurol 2021; 41:348-364. [PMID: 33851396 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important risk factor for ischemic stroke resulting in a fivefold increased stroke risk and a twofold increased mortality. Our understanding of stroke mechanisms in AF has evolved since the concept of atrial cardiopathy was introduced as an underlying pathological change, with both AF and thromboembolism being common manifestations and outcomes. Despite the strong association with stroke, there is no evidence that screening for AF in asymptomatic patients improves clinical outcomes; however, there is strong evidence that patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source may require long-term monitoring to detect silent or paroxysmal AF. Stroke prevention in patients at risk, assessed by the CHA2DS2-VASc score, was traditionally achieved with warfarin; however, direct oral anticoagulants have solidified their role as safe and effective alternatives. Additionally, left atrial appendage exclusion has emerged as a viable option in patients intolerant of anticoagulation. When patients with AF have an acute stroke, the timing of initiation or resumption of anticoagulation for secondary stroke prevention has to be balanced against the risk of hemorrhagic conversion. Multiple randomized clinical trials are currently underway to determine the best timing for administration of anticoagulants following acute ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Migdady
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew Russman
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Andrew B Buletko
- Cerebrovascular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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43
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Gusdon AM, Farrokh S, Grotta JC. Antithrombotic Therapy for Stroke Patients with Cardiovascular Disease. Semin Neurol 2021; 41:365-387. [PMID: 33851394 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Prevention of ischemic stroke relies on the use of antithrombotic medications comprising antiplatelet agents and anticoagulation. Stroke risk is particularly high in patients with cardiovascular disease. This review will focus on the role of antithrombotic therapies in the context of different types of cardiovascular disease. We will discuss oral antiplatelet medications and both IV and parental anticoagulants. Different kinds of cardiovascular disease contribute to stroke via distinct pathophysiological mechanisms, and the optimal treatment for each varies accordingly. We will explore the mechanism of stroke and evidence for antithrombotic therapy in the following conditions: atrial fibrillation, prosthetic heart values (mechanical and bioprosthetic), aortic arch atherosclerosis, congestive heart failure (CHF), endocarditis (infective and nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis), patent foramen ovale (PFO), left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). While robust data exist for antithrombotic use in conditions such as atrial fibrillation, optimal treatment in many situations remains under active investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Gusdon
- Department of Neurosurgery, UTHealth Neurosciences, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Salia Farrokh
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James C Grotta
- Mobile Stroke Unit, Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston
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44
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Meltzer SN, Phatak PM, Fazlalizadeh H, Chang I, Bering P, Kenigsberg B, Weissman G, Shah MH, Satler LF, Rogers T, Lang RM, Asch FM, Kumar P, Medvedofsky D. Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Left Atrial Appendage Volumetric Analysis. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2021; 34:987-995. [PMID: 33775733 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left atrial appendage (LAA) echocardiographic assessment is difficult because of the complex shape and relatively small size of the LAA. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiographic imaging can overcome the limitations of two-dimensional imaging. Pulsed-wave Doppler is the only currently standard LAA functional parameter. The aim of this study was to test a new approach for 3D echocardiographic volumetric analysis to obtain LAA ejection fraction (EF), its size and shape. METHODS Transesophageal two-dimensional and 3D LAA images were prospectively obtained in 159 consecutive patients. LAA volumes were measured from 3D echocardiographic images using available software. Pulsed-wave Doppler was considered the reference value for LAA function and was used for comparison with LAA EF. Comparison with cardiac computed tomography was performed in a subgroup of 32 patients. Comparisons included linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses. Repeated measurements were performed to assess measurement variability. RESULTS Nine patients were excluded because of suboptimal image quality (94% feasibility). Three-dimensional LAA calculated EF was in good agreement with LAA pulsed-wave measurements. Three-dimensional morphologic evaluation showed that 43% of the patients had "chicken wing," 33% "cactus," 19% "windsock," and 5% cauliflower shapes. At the time of data acquisition, patients with atrial fibrillation had nonsignificantly larger LAA end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes, leading to lower calculated EFs. Three-dimensional echocardiographic LAA end-systolic volumes were in good agreement with cardiac computed tomography (r = 0.75), with small biases (mean, -2.5 ± 3.9 ml). Reproducibility was better for larger LAA volumes. CONCLUSIONS A novel 3D echocardiographic approach can determine the geometry, size, and function of the LAA. A new parameter, LAA EF, provides functional quantitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth N Meltzer
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Prajakta M Phatak
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Hooman Fazlalizadeh
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Ian Chang
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Patrick Bering
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Benjamin Kenigsberg
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Gaby Weissman
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Manish H Shah
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Lowell F Satler
- Section of Interventional Cardiology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Toby Rogers
- Section of Interventional Cardiology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia; Cardiovascular Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Roberto M Lang
- University of Chicago, Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Federico M Asch
- MedStar Health Research Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Preetham Kumar
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Diego Medvedofsky
- MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
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Ebelt H, Goetze S, Weida A, Offhaus A. Impact of ultrasound contrast agent during transoesophageal echocardiography on the sizing of the left atrial appendage. Open Heart 2021; 8:openhrt-2020-001403. [PMID: 33757976 PMCID: PMC7993222 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2020-001403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interventional closure of the left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has been established as an alternative treatment in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and an increased risk of stroke. So far it is unknown whether the use of ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) would influence the correct sizing of the LAA and thereby have an impact on device selection during interventional LAAC. METHODS Between January 2017 and April 2018, 223 transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) examinations were prospectively performed in adult patients with non-valvular AF (Impact of the use of ultrasound contrast agent on the detection of thrombi in the left atrial appendage during transesophageal echocardiography (CONDOR) study). LAA was examined both with and without the use of UCA. The following measurements were taken at 0o, 45o, 90o and 135o: diameter of LAA ostium, maximal depth of the LAA, maximal available depth of the LAA orthogonal to the ostial plane and area of the LAA. RESULTS The use of UCA had no relevant influence on the size determination of the LAA. Additionally, Bland-Altman blots demonstrate a high degree of correlation between the measurements with and without UCA with no evidence for a systematic effect arising from the use of UCA. When comparing the measurements of two independent investigators, the use of UCA rather leads to a higher variability than to an improved precision. DISCUSSION Despite the fact that the use of UCA during TOE leads to an improved rule out of thrombi, our study shows that there is no advantageous effect of UCA on the size determination of the LAA and should therefore not be used for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Ebelt
- Department of Medicine II, Catholic Hospital, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Sarah Goetze
- Department of Medicine II, Catholic Hospital, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Anja Weida
- Department of Medicine II, Catholic Hospital, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Offhaus
- Department of Medicine II, Catholic Hospital, Sankt Johann Nepomuk, Erfurt, Thüringen, Germany
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De Marchis GM, Sposato LA, Kühne M, Dittrich TD, Bonati LH, Fischer U, Chaturvedi S. New Avenues for Optimal Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Prevention. Stroke 2021; 52:1490-1499. [PMID: 33626906 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.120.032060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
One in 3 individuals free of atrial fibrillation (AF) at index age 55 years is estimated to develop AF later in life. AF increases not only the risk of ischemic stroke but also of dementia, even in stroke-free patients. In this review, we address recent advances in the heart-brain interaction with focus on AF. Issues discussed are (1) the timing of direct oral anticoagulants start following an ischemic stroke; (2) the comparison of direct oral anticoagulants versus vitamin K antagonists in early secondary stroke prevention; (3) harms of bridging with heparin before direct oral anticoagulants; (4) importance of appropriate direct oral anticoagulants dosing; (5) screening for AF in high-risk populations, including the role of wearables; (6) left atrial appendage occlusion as an alternative to oral anticoagulation; (7) the role of early rhythm-control therapy; (8) effect of lifestyle interventions on AF; (9) AF as a risk factor for dementia. An interdisciplinary approach seems appropriate to address the complex challenges posed by AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gian Marco De Marchis
- Department of Neurology (G.M.D.M., T.D.D., L.H.B.), University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luciano A Sposato
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Center (L.A.S.), Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Heart & Brain Lab (L.A.S.), Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Kühne
- Department of Cardiology (M.K.), University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.,Cardiovascular Research Institute Basel (M.K.), University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tolga D Dittrich
- Department of Neurology (G.M.D.M., T.D.D., L.H.B.), University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Leo H Bonati
- Department of Neurology (G.M.D.M., T.D.D., L.H.B.), University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Urs Fischer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Switzerland (U.F.)
| | - Seemant Chaturvedi
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore (S.C.)
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47
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Hindricks G, Potpara T, Dagres N, Arbelo E, Bax JJ, Blomström-Lundqvist C, Boriani G, Castella M, Dan GA, Dilaveris PE, Fauchier L, Filippatos G, Kalman JM, La Meir M, Lane DA, Lebeau JP, Lettino M, Lip GYH, Pinto FJ, Thomas GN, Valgimigli M, Van Gelder IC, Van Putte BP, Watkins CL. 2020 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS): The Task Force for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Developed with the special contribution of the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) of the ESC. Eur Heart J 2021; 42:373-498. [PMID: 32860505 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5210] [Impact Index Per Article: 1736.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Atrial thrombi in elective patients considered for atrial fibrillation rhythm control: Risk factors and prognostic value. Indian Heart J 2021; 73:228-230. [PMID: 33865525 PMCID: PMC8065352 DOI: 10.1016/j.ihj.2021.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognostic value of atrial thrombi (AT) among elective patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) referred for a rhythm control strategy is unclear. In this study, clinical variables were correlated with the presence of AT and long term survival among 205 patients submitted to transesophageal echocardiography before elective AF cardioversion or ablation. Atrial thrombi were present in 7.8% of cases and were significantly associated with reduced survival. Obesity was the only independent clinical predictor of AT [OR 4.27 (1.15-15.79), p = 0.03]. In patients with AF, AT appear to be associated with adverse outcomes, possibly indicating more advanced atrial cardiomyopathy.
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49
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Maarse M, Wintgens LIS, Ponomarenko A, Phillips KP, Romanov AB, Ballesteros G, Swaans MJ, Folkeringa RJ, Garcia-Bolao I, Boersma LVA. Impact of anticoagulation strategy after left atrial appendage occlusion in patients requiring direct current cardioversion. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2021; 32:737-744. [PMID: 33448508 DOI: 10.1111/jce.14889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current guidelines recommend adequate anticoagulation for at least 3 weeks pre- and 4 weeks post-direct current cardioversion (DCCV) to reduce thrombo-embolic risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) lasting greater than 48 h. No specific recommendations exist for DCCV in patients that have undergone left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO), many of whom are ineligible for anticoagulation. This study aims to observe the efficacy and safety of DCCV post-LAAO in everyday clinical practice. METHODS This prospective multicenter registry included DCCVs in patients post-LAAO. Imaging strategy or anticoagulation treatment around DCCV were analyzed. Complications during 30-day follow-up were registered. DCCVs performed in accordance with current guidelines for the general AF population were compared to DCCVs performed deviating from these guidelines. RESULTS In 93 patients (age 65 ± 17 years, CHA2 DS2 -VASC 3.0 ± 1.3) 284 DCCVs were performed between 2010 and 2018, in 271 sinus rhythm was restored. A wide variety of imaging or anticoagulation strategies around DCCV was observed; in 128 episodes strategies deviated from current guidelines. No thrombo-embolic events were observed after any DCCV during 30-day follow-up. In 34 DCCVs trans-esophageal echocardiography (TOE) was performed before DCCV to exclude cardiac thrombi and/or (re-)verify adequate device positioning. In two patients without post-LAAO imaging before DCCV, a device rotation or embolization was observed during scheduled TOE after LAAO. CONCLUSION DCCV in AF patients after LAAO is highly effective. No thrombo-embolic events were observed in any patient in this observational cohort, regardless of the periprocedural anticoagulation or imaging strategy. Confirmation of adequate device positioning at least once before DCCV seems recommendable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moniek Maarse
- Department of Cardiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisette I S Wintgens
- Department of Cardiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrey Ponomarenko
- Department of Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Laboratory, E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center of the Ministry of Health, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Karen P Phillips
- Department of Cardiology, Greenslopes Private Hospital, HeartCare Partners, Greenslopes, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Aleksandr B Romanov
- Department of Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Laboratory, E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center of the Ministry of Health, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Gabriel Ballesteros
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Martin J Swaans
- Department of Cardiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J Folkeringa
- Department of Cardiology, Medical Center Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Ignacio Garcia-Bolao
- Unidad de Arritmias, Servicio de Cardiologia, University Clinic of Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Lucas V A Boersma
- Department of Cardiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Pluymaekers NA, Hermans AN, Linz DK, Dudink EA, Luermans JG, Weijs B, Vernooy K, Crijns HJ. Frequency and Determinants of Spontaneous Conversion to Sinus Rhythm in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department with Recent-onset Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2021; 9:195-201. [PMID: 33437487 PMCID: PMC7788393 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2020.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The exact frequency and clinical determinants of spontaneous conversion (SCV) in patients with symptomatic recent-onset AF are unclear. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the frequency and determinants of SCV of AF in patients presenting at the emergency department. A comprehensive literature search for studies about SCV in patients presenting to the emergency department with AF resulted in 25 articles - 12 randomised controlled trials and 13 observational studies. SCV rates range between 9-83% and determinants of SCV also varied between studies. The most important determinants of SCV included short duration of AF (<24 or <48 hours), low number of episodes, normal atrial dimensions and absence of previous heart disease. The large variation in SCV rate and determinants of SCV was related to differences in duration of the observation period, inclusion and exclusion criteria and in variables used in the prediction models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Aha Pluymaekers
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Nl Hermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik K Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Elton Amp Dudink
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Justin Glm Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Bob Weijs
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Harry Jgm Crijns
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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