1
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Leung ANW, Bhat A. Use of Anticoagulation for Thromboembolic Prophylaxis in Patients With Atrial High-Rate Episodes on Device Monitoring: A Narrative Review. Am J Cardiol 2024; 211:183-190. [PMID: 37944778 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke and systemic thromboembolism are primary drivers of significant morbidity and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Although stroke is commonly the first index presentation of clinically silent AF, the growing use of continuous rhythm monitoring through cardiac implanted electronic devices has enabled earlier and increased detection of AF in patients who are otherwise asymptomatic before stroke development. Atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) are atrial tachyarrhythmias frequently detected by cardiac implanted electronic devices; these events represent subclinical AF and other atrial tachyarrhythmias that can lead to stroke development and AF. Although the presence of AHREs increases the risk of developing both clinical AF and stroke compared with absence of AHREs, there has been a significant clinical variability in anticoagulation initiation in these subjects. In this narrative review, we explore the current evidence and published research surrounding the association between AHREs and stroke development in addition to the utility of anticoagulation in this population for thromboembolic prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Ngar Wing Leung
- Department of Cardiology, Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aditya Bhat
- Department of Cardiology, Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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2
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Saglietto A, Ballatore A, Griffith Brookles C, Xhakupi H, De Ferrari GM, Anselmino M. Role of atrial high-rate episodes in stratifying thromboembolic risk: a multiple cut-off diagnostic meta-analysis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1289372. [PMID: 38028457 PMCID: PMC10662047 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1289372] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Despite the high prevalence rate of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) detected using cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), clinical guidelines and consensus documents have disagreed on a universal AHRE definition and a temporal cut-off related to subsequent thromboembolic events. This diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis aims to derive the optimal temporal threshold of clinically significant AHREs from the available literature. Methods The PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were screened for studies on CIED patients reporting the incidence of thromboembolic events related to at least one AHRE temporal cut-off. A total of 23 studies were included: 19 considering the longest single AHRE and four the AHRE burden, respectively. A random-effect diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis with multiple cut-offs was performed. Two analyses were performed according to the AHRE temporal cut-off subtype (longest episode vs. cumulative burden). Results The analysis on the longest single AHRE indicated 0.07 min as the optimal duration to differentiate AHRE associated or not with thromboembolic events [sensitivity 65.4% (95% CI 48.8%-79.0%), specificity 52.7% (95% CI 46.0%-59.4%), and area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-SROC): 0.62]. The analysis on AHRE burden indicated 1.4 min as the optimal cut-off [sensitivity 58.2% (95% CI 25.6%-85.0%), specificity 57.5% (95% CI 42.0%-71.7%), and AUC-SROC 0.60]. A sensitivity analysis excluding patients with a history of atrial fibrillation and including high-quality studies only yielded similar results. Conclusion The presence of AHRE, rather than a specific duration, relates to an increased, albeit low, thromboembolic risk in CIED patients. Any AHRE should constitute an additional element in patient-specific thromboembolic risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Saglietto
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, “Citta Della Salute e Della Scienza” Hospital, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballatore
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, “Citta Della Salute e Della Scienza” Hospital, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Carola Griffith Brookles
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, “Citta Della Salute e Della Scienza” Hospital, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Henri Xhakupi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - Gaetano Maria De Ferrari
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, “Citta Della Salute e Della Scienza” Hospital, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Matteo Anselmino
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, “Citta Della Salute e Della Scienza” Hospital, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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3
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Kawakami H, Saito M, Fujisawa T, Nagai T, Nishimura K, Akazawa Y, Miyoshi T, Higaki A, Seike F, Higashi H, Inoue K, Ikeda S, Yamaguchi O. A cost-effectiveness analysis of remote monitoring after pacemaker implantation for bradycardia in Japan. J Cardiol 2023; 82:388-397. [PMID: 37343930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jjcc.2023.06.003] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although remote monitoring (RM) after pacemaker implantation is common, its cost-effectiveness has not been fully investigated. Therefore, we assessed the cost-effectiveness of RM compared with conventional follow-up (CFU) in Japanese patients with pacemakers. METHODS A Markov model was constructed to analyze costs and quality-adjusted life years after pacemaker implantation. The target population was Japanese patients implanted with a dual-chamber pacemaker for bradycardia. Transition probabilities (e.g. atrial fibrillation, stroke, and device trouble) were obtained from literature and expert sources. Additionally, stroke risk was determined according to anticoagulation and CHADS2 scores. We used a 10-year horizon with sensitivity analyses for significant variables. RESULTS Compared to CFU, RM was more effective; however, it was also more expensive. When the range of the Japanese willingness-to-pay threshold was considered to be ¥5,000,000, RM was at least cost-neutral relative to the CFU in all elderly patients with pacemakers for bradycardia. The cost-effectiveness of RM relative to CFU could be higher for patients with high CHADS2 scores, especially in patients with a CHADS2 score ≥ 3. Scenario analyses changing the interval between visits to an in-office evaluation in the CFU also demonstrated the same conclusions. In particular, when the interval between office visits was 1 year for the CFU, the RM could be more cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that RM can be a cost-effective option for Japanese patients, especially those with high CHADS2 scores and long-term intervals between office visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kawakami
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan.
| | - Makoto Saito
- Department of Cardiology, Kitaishikai Hospital, Ozu, Japan
| | - Tomoki Fujisawa
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Nishimura
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Yusuke Akazawa
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Toru Miyoshi
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Akinori Higaki
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Fumiyasu Seike
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Higashi
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Katsuji Inoue
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Ikeda
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Osamu Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology and Hypertension, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity globally. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia. It is set to reach epidemic proportions. AF is associated with a five-fold increase in risk of stroke. Strokes caused by AF more often are fatal or result in severe disability. Even though the incidence of stroke has been significantly reduced by oral anticoagulation, AF is thought to account for a significant proportion of cryptogenic strokes where no etiology is identified. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the literature related to AF and stroke, pathophysiological insights, diagnosis of AF in stroke patients, and its management (Graphical Abstract). EXPERT OPINION The pathophysiology of thrombogenesis that links AF and stroke is not well understood and is an area of active research to identify new therapeutic targets to prevent AF and stroke. As the nature of AF and stroke is multifaceted, an integrated care approach to managing AF and stroke is increasingly essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia E Choi
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dimitrios Sagris
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Andrew Hill
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Stroke Division, Department of Medicine for Older People, Whiston Hospital, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Azmil H Abdul-Rahim
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Stroke Division, Department of Medicine for Older People, Whiston Hospital, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
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5
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Proietti M, Romiti GF, Vitolo M, Borgi M, Rocco AD, Farcomeni A, Miyazawa K, Healey JS, Lane DA, Boriani G, Basili S, Lip GYH. Epidemiology of subclinical atrial fibrillation in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices: A systematic review and meta-regression. Eur J Intern Med 2022; 103:84-94. [PMID: 35817660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, attention to subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF), defined as the presence of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs), in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), has gained much interest as a determinant of clinical AF and stroke risk. We aim to perform a systematic review and meta-regression of the available scientific evidence regarding the epidemiology of SCAF in patients receiving CIEDs. METHODS PubMed and EMBASE were searched for all studies documenting the prevalence of AHREs in patients (n=100 or more, <50% with history of AF) with CIEDs from inception to 20th August 2021, screened by two independent blind reviewers. This study was registered in PROSPERO: CRD42019106994. RESULTS Among the 2614 results initially retrieved, 54 studies were included, with a total of 72,784 patients. Meta-analysis of included studies showed a pooled prevalence of SCAF of 28.1% (95%CI: 24.3-32.1%), with high heterogeneity between studies (I2=98%). A multivariable meta-regression was able to explain significant proportion of heterogeneity (R2=61.9%, p<0.001), with age and follow-up time non-linearly, directly and independently associated with occurrence of SCAF. Older age, higher CHA2DS2-VASc score, history of AF, hypertension, CHF, and stroke/TIA were all associated with SCAF occurrence. CONCLUSIONS In this systematic review and meta-regression analysis, SCAF was frequent among CIED recipients and was non-linearly associated with age and follow-up time. Older age, higher thromboembolic risk, and several cardiovascular comorbidities were associated with presence of SCAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Proietti
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Giulio Francesco Romiti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy; Clinical and Experimental PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Borgi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Policlinic "G Martino," University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Rocco
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Farcomeni
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Kazuo Miyazawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Jeff S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Deirdre A Lane
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Basili
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
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6
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Kreimer F, Mügge A, Gotzmann M. How should I treat patients with subclinical atrial fibrillation and atrial high-rate episodes? Current evidence and clinical importance. Clin Res Cardiol 2022; 111:994-1009. [PMID: 35292844 PMCID: PMC9424173 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-022-02000-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Long-term and continuous ECG monitoring using cardiac implantable electronic devices and insertable cardiac monitors has improved the capability of detecting subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial high-rate episodes. Previous studies demonstrated a high prevalence (more than 20%) in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices or insertable cardiac monitors. Subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes are often suspected as the cause of prior or potential future ischemic stroke. However, the clinical significance is still uncertain, and the evidence is limited. This review aims to present and discuss the current evidence on the clinical impact of subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes. It focuses particularly on the association between the duration of the episodes and major clinical outcomes like thromboembolic events. As subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes are presumed to be associated with ischemic strokes, detection will be particularly important in patients with cryptogenic stroke and in high-risk patients for thromboembolism. In this context, it is also interesting whether there is a temporal relationship between the detection of subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes and the occurrence of thromboembolic events. In addition, the review will examine the question whether there is a need for a therapy with oral anticoagulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Kreimer
- University Hospital St Josef-Hospital Bochum, Cardiology and Rhythmology, Ruhr University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Germany
| | - Andreas Mügge
- University Hospital St Josef-Hospital Bochum, Cardiology and Rhythmology, Ruhr University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael Gotzmann
- University Hospital St Josef-Hospital Bochum, Cardiology and Rhythmology, Ruhr University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Germany.
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7
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Özge G, Kepez A, Uğur K, Görenek B. What to do with device-detected atrial high-rate episodes: Summary of the evidences. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2021; 45:250-261. [PMID: 34927268 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac implanted electronic devices (CIEDs), that perform atrial sensing via an atrial electrode, commonly detect self-terminating atrial arrhythmias. Nomenclature of these arrhythmias is defined as atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) and subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF). We have provided a comprehensive summation of the trials regarding the incidence and adverse outcomes of AHREs. The reported incidence of AHRE varies considerably (approximately 10% to %70) between studies depending on the definition of AHRE, duration of follow-up and the clinical profile of the population. There is increasing evidence related with the association between AHREs' and stroke and/or systemic embolism. However, risk of stroke and/or systemic embolism seems to be less than the risk associated with clinical AF. There is still lack of sufficient evidence related with oral anticoagulation (OAC) in patients with AHRE to reduce thromboembolic risk. Although, the strongest association of OAC treatment with reduction in stroke has been reported to be observed among patients with device detected SCAF episodes of >24 hours; it is still questionable whether AHRE is a direct cause of thromboembolic event or just a marker of increased risk. Results of ongoing randomized clinical trials (NOAH-AFNET 6 and ARTESIA) will provide robust evidence on effect of OAC therapy on AHREs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurbet Özge
- Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Alper Kepez
- Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Kadir Uğur
- Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Bülent Görenek
- Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Eskişehir, Turkey
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8
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Sagris D, Georgiopoulos G, Pateras K, Perlepe K, Korompoki E, Milionis H, Tsiachris D, Chan C, Lip GYH, Ntaios G. Atrial High-Rate Episode Duration Thresholds and Thromboembolic Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e022487. [PMID: 34755543 PMCID: PMC8751956 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.022487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Available evidence supports an association between atrial high‐rate episode (AHRE) burden and thromboembolic risk, but the necessary extent and duration of AHREs to increase the thromboembolic risk remain to be defined. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to identify the thromboembolic risk associated with various AHRE thresholds. Methods and Results We searched PubMed and Scopus until January 9, 2020, for literature reporting AHRE duration and thromboembolic risk in patients with implantable electronic devices. The outcome assessed was stroke or systemic embolism. Risk estimates were reported as hazard ratio (HR) or relative risk alongside 95% CIs. We used the Paule‐Mandel estimator, and heterogeneity was calculated with I2 index. Among 27 studies including 61 919 patients, 23 studies reported rates according to the duration of the longest AHRE and 4 studies reported rates according to the cumulative day‐level AHRE duration. In patients with cardiac implantable devices, AHREs lasting ≥30 seconds significantly increased the risk of stroke or systemic embolism (HR, 4.41; 95% CI, 2.32–8.39; I2, 5.5%), which remained consistent for the thresholds of 5 minutes and 6 and 24 hours. Patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack and AHREs lasting ≥2 minutes had a marginally increased risk of recurrent stroke or transient ischemic attack. The risk of stroke or systemic embolism was higher in patients with cumulative AHRE ≥24 hours compared with those of shorter duration or no AHRE (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.04–1.52; I2, 0%). Conclusions This systematic review and meta‐analysis suggests that single AHRE episodes ≥30 seconds and cumulative AHRE duration ≥24 hours are associated with increased risk of stroke or systemic embolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Sagris
- Department of Internal Medicine School of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine University of Thessaly Larissa Greece
| | - Georgios Georgiopoulos
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences King's College London United Kingdom
| | - Konstantinos Pateras
- Department of Biostatistics and Research Support Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht the Netherlands
| | - Kalliopi Perlepe
- Department of Internal Medicine School of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine University of Thessaly Larissa Greece
| | - Eleni Korompoki
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Haralampos Milionis
- Department of Internal Medicine University Hospital of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tsiachris
- Athens Heart Center Athens Medical Center Athens Greece.,1st Cardiology Department Athens Medical School National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Cheuk Chan
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences King's College London United Kingdom
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital Liverpool United Kingdom.,Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit Department of Clinical Medicine Aalborg University Aalborg Denmark
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Internal Medicine School of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine University of Thessaly Larissa Greece
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9
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Vitolo M, Imberti JF, Maisano A, Albini A, Bonini N, Valenti AC, Malavasi VL, Proietti M, Healey JS, Lip GY, Boriani G. Device-detected atrial high rate episodes and the risk of stroke/thrombo-embolism and atrial fibrillation incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 92:100-106. [PMID: 34154879 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial High Rate Episodes (AHRE) are asymptomatic atrial tachy-arrhythmias detected through continuous monitoring with a cardiac implantable electronic device. The risks of stroke/Thromboembolic (TE) events and incident clinical Atrial Fibrillation (AF) associated with AHRE varies markedly. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship between AHRE and TE events, and between AHRE and incident clinical AF. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following the PRISMA recommendations. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to 18/02/2021 for studies reporting TE events and incident clinical AF in patients with AHRE, as compared with patients without. RESULTS Ten out of 8081 records fulfilled the inclusion criteria, for a total of 37 266 patients. Seven out of ten studies excluded patients with prior history of clinical AF (4961 patients), embracing the most recent definition of AHRE. The risk ratio (RR) for TE events in AHRE patients was 2.13 (95% CI: 1.53-2.95, I2: 0%). The incidence of clinical AF was reported in four studies excluding patients with a history of clinical AF (3574 patients). The RR for incident clinical AF was 3.34 (95%CI: 1.89-5.90, I2: 73%). CONCLUSIONS AHRE are significantly associated with systemic thromboembolism and incident clinical AF. Further studies are needed to improve patients' risk stratification and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy.; Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jacopo F Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy.; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Maisano
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Albini
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Niccolò Bonini
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara Valenti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo L Malavasi
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Proietti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Milan, Italy
| | - Jeff S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory Yh Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy..
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10
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Ishiguchi H, Shimizu A, Ishikura M, Yoshida M, Imoto K, Sonoyama K, Kawabata T, Sugamori T, Ogawa M, Uchida T, Nakamura T, Morimoto T, Yasuda Y, Tanabe K, Yoshiga Y, Okamura T, Kobayashi S, Yano M, Oda T. Association Between Atrial High-Rate Episodes and Ischemic/Major Bleeding Events in Patients With a Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device - A 10-Year, Single-Center Historical Cohort Study. Circ J 2021; 85:1329-1337. [PMID: 33867407 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-20-1269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An association between atrial high-rate episode (AHRE) and stroke has been reported, although data for the Asian population are limited. This study aimed to investigate the role of AHRE in ischemic and major bleeding events in patients who underwent a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) procedure.Methods and Results:This single-center historical cohort study included 710 patients (age: 78±11 years, 374 women) who underwent a CIED-related procedure between October 2009 and September 2019 at Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital (median follow-up period: 4.5 [2.5, 7] years, 3439 person-years). Based on the maximum AHRE burden, patients were divided into: (1) <6 min; (2) ≥6 min to 24-h; and (3) ≥24-h groups. The cumulative incidence of ischemic (ischemic stroke, systemic embolism, and transient ischemic attack) and major bleeding (≥3 Bleeding Academic Research Consortium bleeding criteria) events after the procedure were compared. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with these events. The incidence of both events increased with the rising AHRE burden, being significantly higher in the ≥24-h group than in the <6 min group. Multivariate analysis found age ≥85 years to be the only independent factor associated with both events. CONCLUSIONS Longer AHRE duration is associated with a high number of major bleeding and ischemic events. Monitoring these bleeding risks is mandatory when clinicians are considering anticoagulation therapy for such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Masaaki Yoshida
- Division of Cardiology, Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital
| | - Koji Imoto
- Division of Cardiology, Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital
| | | | | | | | | | - Tomoyuki Uchida
- Department of Cardiology, National Hospital Organisation Hamada Medical Center
| | - Tsukasa Nakamura
- Department of Medical Education, Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital
| | - Takeshi Morimoto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology Center for Clinical Research and Education, Hyogo College of Medicine
| | - Yu Yasuda
- Division of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University
| | - Kazuaki Tanabe
- Division of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University
| | - Yasuhiro Yoshiga
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Takayuki Okamura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Shigeki Kobayashi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Masafumi Yano
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tsuyoshi Oda
- Division of Cardiology, Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital
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11
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Lu WD, Chen JY. Atrial high‑rate episodes and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with dual chamber permanent pacemakers: a retrospective study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5753. [PMID: 33707593 PMCID: PMC7952691 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85301-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE) are at higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The cutoff threshold for AHRE duration for MACE, with/without history of atrial fibrillation (AF) or myocardial infarction (MI), is unknown. A total of 481 consecutive patients with/without history of AF or MI receiving dual-chamber pacemaker implantation were included. The primary outcome was a composite endpoint of MACE after AHRE ≥ 5 min, ≥ 6 h, and ≥ 24 h. AHRE was defined as > 175 bpm (MEDTRONIC) or > 200 bpm (BIOTRONIK) lasting ≥ 5 min. Cox regression analysis with time-dependent covariates was conducted. Patients' mean age was 75.3 ± 10.7 years and 188 (39.1%) developed AHRE ≥ 5 min, 115 (23.9%) ≥ 6 h, and 83 (17.3%) ≥ 24 h. During follow-up (median 39.9 ± 29.8 months), 92 MACE occurred (IR 5.749%/year, 95% CI 3.88-5.85). AHRE ≥ 5 min (HR 5.252, 95% CI 2.575-10.715, P < 0.001) and ≥ 6 h (HR 2.548, 95% CI 1.284-5.058, P = 0.007) was independently associated with MACE, but not AHRE ≥ 24 h. Patients with history of MI (IR 17.80%/year) had higher MACE incidence than those without (IR 3.77%/year, p = 0.001). Significant differences were found between MACE patients with/without history of AF in AHRE ≥ 5 min but not AHRE ≥ 6 h or ≥ 24 h. Patients with dual-chamber pacemakers who develop AHRE have increased risk of MACE, particularly after history of AF or MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Da Lu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 704, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Yi Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 704, Taiwan.
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12
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Abstract
Atrial high rate episodes (AHREs) are defined as asymptomatic atrial tachyarrhythmias detected by cardiac implantable electronic devices with atrial sensing, providing automated continuous monitoring and tracings storage, occurring in subjects with no previous clinical atrial fibrillation (AF) and with no AF detected at conventional electrocardiogram recordings. AHREs are associated with an increased thrombo-embolic risk, which is not negligible, although lower than that of clinical AF. The thrombo-embolic risk increases with increasing burden of AHREs, and moreover, AHREs burden shows a dynamic pattern, with tendency to progression along with time, with potential transition to clinical AF. The clinical management of AHREs, in particular with regard to prophylactic treatment with oral anticoagulants (OACs), remains uncertain and heterogeneous. At present, in patients with confirmed AHREs, as a result of device tracing analysis, an integrated, individual and clinically-guided assessment should be applied, taking into account the patients’ risk of stroke (to be reassessed regularly) and the AHREs burden. The use of OACs, preferentially non-vitamin K antagonists OACs, may be justified in selected patients, such as those with longer AHREs durations (in the range of several hours or ≥24 h), with no doubts on AF diagnosis after device tracing analysis and with an estimated high/very high individual risk of stroke, accounting for the anticipated net clinical benefit, and informed patient’s preferences. Two randomized clinical trials on this topic are currently ongoing and are likely to better define the role of anticoagulant therapy in patients with AHREs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Corresponding author. Tel: +39 059 4225836, Fax: +39 059 4224498,
| | - Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Jacopo Francesco Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Tatjana S Potpara
- School of Medicine, Belgrade University, dr Subotica 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Visegradska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Søndre Skovvej 15, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
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13
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Li YG, Miyazawa K, Pastori D, Szekely O, Shahid F, Lip GY. Atrial high-rate episodes and thromboembolism in patients without atrial fibrillation: The West Birmingham Atrial Fibrillation Project. Int J Cardiol 2019; 292:126-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2019.04.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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14
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Abstract
Abstract Atrial high rate episodes (AHREs), also termed, subclinical atrial tachyarrhythmias or subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) are an important cardiovascular condition. Advancement in implantable cardiac devices such as pacemakers or internal cardiac defibrillators has enabled the continuous assessment of atrial tachyarrhythmias in patients with an atrial lead. Patients with device-detected AHREs are at an elevated risk of stroke and may have unmet anticoagulation needs. While the benefits of oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention in patients with clinical AF are well recognised, it is not known whether the same risk–benefit ratio exists for anticoagulation therapy in patients with AHREs. The occurrence and significance of AHRE are increasingly acknowledged but these events are still not often acted upon in patients presenting with stroke and TIA. Additionally, patients with AHRE show a significant risk for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including acute heart failure, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular hospitalisation, ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation, which is dependent on AHRE burden. In this review, we present an overview of this relatively new entity, its associated thromboembolic risk and its management implications. Graphic abstract ![]()
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15
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Nakano M, Kondo Y, Nakano M, Kajiyama T, Hayashi T, Ito R, Takahira H, Kobayashi Y. Impact of atrial high-rate episodes on the risk of future stroke. J Cardiol 2019; 74:144-149. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jjcc.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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