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Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
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Optimizing prognosis in atrial fibrillation: A call to action in Portugal

Jorge Ferreira1, Natália António2, Nuno Cortez-Dias3

  • 1Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital de Santa Cruz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Carnaxide, Portugal.

Revista Portuguesa De Cardiologia
|August 16, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF) management has advanced with new anticoagulants, yet residual risks like stroke and bleeding persist. Early detection and comprehensive strategies are crucial for improving patient outcomes and prognosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Thrombocardiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent arrhythmia globally, causing significant cardiovascular mortality, morbidity, and economic burden.
  • Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is vital for stroke prevention in AF patients.
  • Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have revolutionized thrombocardiology, but residual vascular risks remain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current epidemiological data on atrial fibrillation.
  • To discuss advancements in early AF detection and rhythm control strategies.
  • To explore optimal management of OAC, bleeding, and future prognostic improvements.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological data on AF.
  • Analysis of current tools for early AF detection.
  • Evaluation of catheter ablation for rhythm control.
  • Assessment of periprocedural OAC and bleeding management.

Main Results:

  • Significant residual vascular risks persist despite advances in AF treatment.
  • Silent AF, bleeding complications, sudden death, and heart failure are key concerns.
  • New tools and strategies are needed to mitigate these residual risks.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive management strategies are essential for improving AF prognosis.
  • Early detection, optimized anticoagulation, and risk factor management are critical.
  • Further research is needed to address residual risks and enhance patient outcomes.

Keywords:
Acidente vascular cerebralAtrial fibrillationBleedingFibrilhação auricularHeart failureHemorragiaInsuficiência cardíacaStroke

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