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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
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Published on: February 28, 2012

Thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation

D G Sherman, L Goldman, R B Whiting

    Archives of Neurology
    |July 1, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increases stroke risk, with 31% of patients experiencing embolism. Many strokes were severe and occurred in undiagnosed AF cases, highlighting the need for early detection to prevent recurrent events.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Neurology
    • Vascular Medicine

    Background:

    • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia.
    • Thromboembolic events, including stroke, are known complications of AF.
    • The characteristics and predictors of thromboembolism in AF patients require further elucidation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the incidence of stroke and peripheral embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation.
    • To characterize the nature of these thromboembolic events.
    • To identify potential risk factors and patterns of recurrence.

    Main Methods:

    • Retrospective review of medical records.
    • Analysis of data from 150 patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.
    • Assessment of thromboembolic event occurrence, type, and timing.

    Main Results:

    • 31% of patients with AF experienced a stroke or peripheral embolism.
    • In 80% of cases, AF was not associated with cardiac valvular disease.
    • Cerebral infarcts were often large, disabling, and occurred without prior transient ischemic attack, frequently in undiagnosed AF.
    • Half of affected patients had multiple events, with 25% of recurrences within two weeks.

    Conclusions:

    • Atrial fibrillation poses a substantial risk for disabling thromboembolic events, even without valvular disease.
    • Undetected atrial fibrillation is a critical factor preceding thromboembolism.
    • Prompt identification and management of AF are crucial to prevent initial and recurrent ischemic events.

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