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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Atrial fibrillation and anticoagulation in a stroke unit population
O Ahmad1, K E Ahmad, K B G Dear
1Department of Neurology, The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.
Internal Medicine Journal
|November 17, 2009
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major stroke risk. Many patients with AF are undertreated with anticoagulation, increasing their risk of recurrent stroke. This study highlights the need for better anticoagulation management in AF patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke.
- Warfarin therapy, a key preventative treatment, is underutilized even in eligible patients.
- Assessing AF prevalence and anticoagulation status in stroke units is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in an Australian stroke unit.
- To evaluate the degree of anticoagulation undertreatment among AF patients presenting with stroke.
- To identify the proportion of AF patients receiving inadequate anticoagulation therapy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 500 patients admitted to a stroke unit from October 2004 to September 2006.
- Identification of patients with new or pre-existing atrial fibrillation (AF).
- Assessment of anticoagulation status, prior stroke history, and stroke severity.
Main Results:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF)-related strokes constituted 28% of all admissions.
- AF-related strokes were associated with greater neurological deficits.
- 68% of AF patients with no contraindications were undertreated with anticoagulation upon presentation.
Conclusions:
- Initiating and maintaining anticoagulation in AF patients without contraindications is vital.
- Undertreatment of anticoagulation in AF patients poses a significant risk for subsequent strokes.
- Improved anticoagulation strategies are needed to minimize stroke recurrence in AF patients.
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