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Updated: Aug 16, 2025

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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Atrial fibrillation and stroke

Sylvia E Choi1,2, Dimitrios Sagris1,3, Andrew Hill1,4

  • 1Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.

Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy
|December 20, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increases stroke risk, often leading to severe outcomes. Oral anticoagulation helps, but AF remains a key factor in many unexplained strokes, necessitating further research and integrated care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia with a five-fold increased risk of stroke.
  • AF-related strokes are frequently fatal or disabling, posing a significant global health burden.
  • AF contributes to a substantial portion of cryptogenic strokes, where the cause is unclear.

Approach:

  • This review synthesizes current literature on the relationship between AF and stroke.
  • It explores pathophysiological mechanisms linking AF to thrombogenesis and stroke.
  • The review covers diagnostic strategies and management approaches for AF in stroke patients.

Key Points:

  • The pathophysiology connecting AF and stroke requires further elucidation to develop novel therapeutic targets.
  • Integrated care models are crucial for managing the complex interplay of AF and stroke.
  • Identifying and managing AF is vital for reducing stroke incidence and improving patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • AF represents a major, modifiable risk factor for stroke.
  • Understanding the pathophysiology of AF-related thrombogenesis is critical for prevention.
  • Comprehensive management strategies, including early diagnosis and integrated care, are essential for mitigating the impact of AF on stroke.
Abstract

Keywords:
atrial fibrillationcryptogenic strokeembolic strokeintegrated care approachoral anticoagulationrhythm controlstroke prevention

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