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Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function

Published on: November 8, 2024

Atrial fibrillation and platelet reactivity.

M Milovanovic¹, E Fransson¹, C Hallert¹

¹Department of Internal Medicine, the Vrinnevi Hospital, Norrköping, Sweden.

International Journal of Cardiology

|March 19, 2010

Summary

Atrial fibrillation (AF) patients showed altered platelet reactivity post-cardioversion. Those remaining in sinus rhythm (SR) had lower reactivity, while those reverting to AF exhibited higher reactivity after 26 months.

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Published on: May 23, 2025

Area of Science:

Cardiovascular Medicine
Hematology
Clinical Research

Background:

The relationship between atrial fibrillation (AF) and platelet reactivity remains under-explored.
Investigating platelet function in AF patients is crucial for understanding thrombotic risk.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the impact of electrical cardioversion (ECV) on platelet reactivity in patients with atrial fibrillation.
To compare platelet reactivity in patients who maintained sinus rhythm versus those who reverted to AF post-ECV.

Main Methods:

33 AF patients underwent ECV; platelet reactivity was measured using flow cytometry with ADP and thrombin receptor activating peptide agonists.
Measurements were taken immediately before ECV and repeated after an average of 26 months.
Platelet surface-bound fibrinogen was determined as an indicator of platelet activation.

Main Results:

At 26 months, patients who reverted to AF (n=18) showed a trend towards lower platelet reactivity compared to baseline, significant with 1.7 μmol/L ADP.
Patients who maintained sinus rhythm (SR) (n=15) exhibited significantly lower platelet reactivity with all agonists at 26 months.
Crucially, patients with recurrent AF at follow-up had higher platelet reactivity than those in SR.

Conclusions:

Long-term sinus rhythm following cardioversion is associated with reduced platelet reactivity.
Recurrent atrial fibrillation after cardioversion is linked to increased platelet reactivity, suggesting a higher thrombotic risk.