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Nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation: a brief overview
M Haraphongse1, Y Haraphongse, T J Montague
1Division of Cardiology, University of Alberta Hospitals, Edmonton.
The Canadian Journal of Cardiology
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation (NRAF) increases stroke and mortality risk. Anticoagulation effectively prevents embolism in NRAF patients, with aspirin as a viable alternative if anticoagulation is contraindicated.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation (NRAF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia.
- Its incidence rises with age and is linked to various clinical and echocardiographic risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effectiveness of current treatment approaches for patients with nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation (NRAF).
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of English-language literature was conducted.
- The review focused on epidemiology, clinical consequences, management, and stroke prevention in NRAF patients.
Main Results:
- NRAF is associated with increased risks of stroke, mortality, and left ventricular dysfunction.
- Key risk factors include diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, and valvular heart disease.
- Management strategies involve rate control, rhythm maintenance, and embolism prevention.
Conclusions:
- Anticoagulation is a highly effective strategy for preventing embolism in NRAF patients, balancing bleeding risks.
- Acetylsalicylic acid offers a less effective but acceptable alternative when anticoagulation is not feasible.