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Updated: Feb 25, 2026

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
23:33

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: February 28, 2012

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[Antithrombotic treatment of patients with valvular atrial fibrillation]

Ann Bovin1, Thomas Decker Christensen, Erik Lerkevang Grove

  • 1erikgrove@dadlnet.dk.

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|August 10, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Patients with valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) have a high risk of stroke. Evidence is lacking on non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for stroke prevention in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Thrombosis Research

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly elevates thromboembolic event risk, especially in patients with valvular AF.
  • Current guidelines and trials on anticoagulation for stroke prevention in AF largely exclude patients with valvular AF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the definition of valvular AF.
  • To review the thromboembolic risk associated with valvular AF.
  • To explore antithrombotic treatment options for stroke prevention in patients with valvular AF.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and discussion of existing evidence.
  • Analysis of trial data exclusion criteria.
  • Synthesis of information on valvular AF definition and treatment.

Main Results:

  • The definition of valvular AF remains debated.
  • There is a significant lack of clinical trial evidence supporting the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with valvular AF.
  • Risk stratification and treatment decisions for this population require careful consideration.

Conclusions:

  • Further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of NOACs in patients with valvular AF.
  • Current antithrombotic strategies for valvular AF should be based on available evidence and expert consensus.
  • Clarifying the definition of valvular AF is crucial for future research and clinical practice.

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