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Updated: Mar 15, 2026
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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
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Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation
Ben Freedman1, Tatjana S Potpara2, Gregory Y H Lip3
1Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Cardiology and Anzac Research Institute, Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia.
Lancet (London, England)
|August 26, 2016
Summary
Atrial fibrillation contributes significantly to ischemic strokes. Early detection and anticoagulant treatment for high-risk patients can prevent many strokes, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major cause of ischemic stroke, accounting for a third of cases.
- Many AF-related strokes result from undiagnosed or undertreated conditions.
- These strokes are often severe, leading to significant disability or death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the preventable nature of AF-related strokes.
- To emphasize the importance of early AF detection and appropriate anticoagulation.
- To advocate for proactive stroke prevention strategies in AF patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of stroke registry data to identify AF prevalence and stroke causes.
- Analysis of current guidelines for AF screening and risk stratification.
- Evaluation of anticoagulant therapies and bleeding risk assessment tools.
Main Results:
- Unknown or untreated atrial fibrillation is a primary driver of ischemic strokes.
- Proactive screening and case finding can identify at-risk individuals.
- Validated risk scores (e.g., CHA2DS2-VASc) aid in treatment decisions.
Conclusions:
- Implementing systematic AF screening and treatment is crucial for stroke prevention.
- Anticoagulant therapy should be offered to most AF patients, guided by risk assessment.
- Long-term patient support is essential for treatment adherence and efficacy.
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