Articles tagged with Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation affects over 2.2 million US citizens, causing fatigue, shortness of breath, and stroke risk; the new Cox-maze IV procedure offers a simpler alternative to traditional surgery with fewer complications
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center present several studies on cardiovascular diseases, including the molecular roots of atrial fibrillation, genes influencing heart transplant rejection, and the cost of end-stage heart failure. Additionally, they explore the potential of stem cells to repair cardiac damage in patients wi...
The new radiofrequency device-based approach significantly shortens the Cox-Maze procedure from over 90 minutes to just 30 minutes. The ablation technology disrupts abnormal electrical activity, normalizing heart rhythm and eliminating atrial fibrillation in over 90% of patients.
A new imaging procedure using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) provides real-time monitoring of the esophagus during ablation, reducing the risk of esophageal injury. The study involved 152 patients who underwent left atrial ablation for AF and found that ICE could detect lesions on the posterior wall of the heart's left atrium.
The revised guidelines recommend using risk factors for stroke to determine whether anti-clotting therapy is given to people with atrial fibrillation. Aspirin or warfarin is recommended for patients with certain risk factors, and daily aspirin therapy is suggested for those without stroke risk factors.
A new study found that older age is an independent risk factor for developing bleeding in the body, particularly intracranial hemorrhage in the brain. Carefully monitored warfarin therapy can be used with reasonable safety in older patients.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a gene mutation causing chaotic electrical activation of the heart muscle and atrial fibrillation. The study found that a specific genetic mutation in the KCNA5 gene leads to susceptibility for atrial fibrillation, providing new insight into its mechanism.
A new study suggests that expensive heart rhythm treatment LACA is cost-effective for younger patients with certain risk factors, while older patients or those without additional risk factors may not benefit from the procedure. The analysis used computer modeling to compare costs and benefits of LACA versus traditional drug therapy.
Patients with atrial fibrillation have a five times higher stroke risk than those without the condition. Warfarin has been shown to reduce stroke risk by a significant margin, outperforming alternative treatments like aspirin and clopidogrel in reducing stroke rates by nearly two-thirds.
Regular exercise helps patients with permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) maintain a regular heartbeat. Moderate physical activity decreased the patients' ventricular rate by 12 percent in those with chronic AF. Researchers also explored new pacemaker technology using acoustic energy, found to be safe and effective.
A study of nearly 17,700 male physicians found that fish consumption was associated with a lower risk of sudden cardiac death, but not necessarily atrial fibrillation. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may also have mixed effects on heart health, depending on individual factors.
A large cohort study found that patients taking high-dose corticosteroids are at increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Corticosteroids may affect heart function by altering potassium balance and causing fluid retention, leading to high blood pressure and congestive heart failure.
A study has found that taller people are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, with the risk increasing by 32% for those in the tallest quartile compared to the shortest. The researchers suggest that tall individuals may need more aggressive risk factor attenuation strategies.
A new magnetic-guided catheter has successfully treated atrial fibrillation in 38 of 40 patients, with no reported complications. The robotic device offers more precise control than conventional catheter ablation devices, potentially reducing procedure duration and improving outcomes.
Temporary esophageal stenting is a new alternative to surgery for correcting esophageal perforations, which can occur during atrial fibrillation ablation procedures. This non-invasive method has been shown to be effective in healing the esophagus without surgery.
Recent studies have improved safety and effectiveness in treating patients with acute coronary syndromes, enhancing the management of cardiovascular disease. These advancements include innovative therapies such as bivalirudin and pexelizumab, which aim to reduce major bleeding risks while maintaining efficacy.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that radiofrequency catheter ablation significantly improved heart rhythm and quality of life for patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. The procedure was effective in returning 74% of patients to normal rhythm, even in those with difficult-to-treat cases.
A study of 3,233 individuals aged 65+ found that subclinical hyperthyroidism was associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. However, the study did not find a link between abnormal thyroid function and other cardiovascular problems.
A Loyola study found that continuous cardiac rhythm monitoring detects unsuspected paroxysmal abnormalities in stroke patients, including atrial fibrillation. Cardiovascular risk factors were discovered more frequently in monitored patients, highlighting the importance of routine telemetry for all stroke patients.
Long-term warfarin therapy increases incidence of osteoporotic fractures by 25% in elderly patients, with men at higher risk. Regular exercise and adequate calcium intake can help maintain bone strength.
A recent trial found that a 13-day perioperative course of oral amiodarone significantly reduced the incidence of atrial tachyarrhythmias after cardiac surgery, particularly in older patients and those undergoing valve surgery. This effective therapy also showed promise in reducing hospital stay and associated healthcare costs.
Research using Kaiser Permanente's ATRIA Study cohort found that women with atrial fibrillation have a higher incidence of ischemic stroke when not taking Warfarin therapy. The study indicates being a woman is an independent risk factor for stroke, influencing treatment options.
A new study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center reveals a significant link between heavy drinking and atrial fibrillation. The research, which analyzed data from 16,415 individuals, found that men who drank 35 or more alcoholic beverages per week had a 45% increased risk of developing the hazardous heart rhythm.
The ACTIVE trial program was designed to evaluate the use of clopidogrel plus aspirin in patients with atrial fibrillation. After an interim analysis, it was recommended to discontinue the ACTIVE W trial but continue the ACTIVE A and I trials.
Transcatheter occlusion of PFO and left atrial appendage eliminates key sources of cardiac embolism, preventing strokes. Alternative to blood thinning therapy, this procedure is safe and effective in preventing stroke, with a lower recurrence rate compared to standard treatment.
Resynchronization therapy has shown efficacy in a specific subgroup of patients with heart failure, improving hemodynamic benefits, exercise tolerance, quality of life, and mortality. However, controversies surround its role in narrow QRS, atrial fibrillation, or right ventricular failure, as well as patient selection, due to high costs.
A study of 59 patients with persistent atrial fibrillation found a strong link between Helicobacter pylori infection and elevated C reactive protein levels, suggesting chronic gastritis may predispose to atrial fibrillation. The researchers also noted that H pylori has properties enabling it to evade the immune system.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that inflammation is the cause of postoperative atrial fibrillation, a rapid and irregular twitching of the upper chambers of the heart. Anti-inflammatory therapy may prevent or lessen this condition by increasing uniformity of electrical impulses in the atria.
The study found that patients with a history of atrial fibrillation and risk factors for stroke should maintain anticoagulation therapy, including warfarin, regardless of sinus rhythm control. The researchers identified seven variables significantly associated with stroke risk, including increasing age and female gender.
The SPORTIF V trial found ximelagatran effective in preventing strokes and systemic embolic events, but with higher mortality rates compared to warfarin. The study results suggest a solid clinical benefit for ximelagatran, but more research is needed to safely bring it to market.
Researchers found that ximelagatran was as effective as warfarin in preventing venous thromboembolism, but had a lower risk of bleeding. In another study, ximelagatran also showed promise for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation, with a lower rate of major and minor bleeding
A recent study found that obesity is a modifiable risk factor for atrial fibrillation, with obese individuals having a significantly higher risk of developing the condition. The study examined data from the Framingham Heart Study and found that age-adjusted incidence rates for AF increased across BMI categories in men and women.
Researchers clarify that achieving an INR range of 2.0 to 3.0 is key to reducing stroke risk without increasing hemorrhage risk in atrial fibrillation patients. The study suggests that older patients with atrial fibrillation can still benefit from warfarin therapy, despite higher risks of intracranial hemorrhage.
Researchers found that masked hypertension, a blood pressure condition where patients have lower office readings but higher 24-hour averages, poses an independent risk for target organ damage. Emotion-cognitive variables play a significant role in how patients appraise the seriousness of their heart attack symptoms.
A new study published in Annals of Pharmacotherapy found that beta blockers reduced hospital stays and atrial fibrillation by 59% and 55%, respectively. Early use of beta-blockers also led to significant reductions in patient death, fluid in the lungs, and need for a balloon pump.
Researchers found microwave energy successfully ablates AF in most patients, while anxiety and low social support are associated with higher risk of relapse in heart failure patients. Additionally, women with non-ST elevation heart disease undergoing angioplasty face a higher risk of adverse events compared to men.
A study of 43 families of sudden unexplained death victims found an inherited disease in 17 cases, while another pilot study showed yoga and meditation improved endothelial function. Strong social support was linked to lower blood pressure, while adherence to guidelines for angioplasty procedures led to better outcomes.
A new study suggests that using drugs to slow heart rate (rate control) is more cost-effective than restoring normal heart rhythm (rhythm control) for treating atrial fibrillation. The American College of Physicians released a tip sheet with these findings and several other articles on related topics.
Researchers developed a new, less invasive approach to treat atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting over 2 million Americans. The procedure uses bipolar radiofrequency ablation and achieved similar success rates as traditional surgery, but with significantly shorter operative times.
A study of 47,949 participants found that moderate to high levels of alcohol consumption were associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation in men. However, no association was found between alcohol consumption and the risk of atrial fibrillation in women.
The ADONIS trial found that dronedarone significantly decreased the risk of a first recurrence of atrial fibrillation or flutter within the 12-month study period by 27.5% compared to placebo. The drug also displayed good cardiac tolerability with no cases of torsades de pointes.
The final pooled analysis of SPORTIF III and V1,2 confirms ximelagatran's effectiveness in preventing strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation. Ximelagatran offers a safer alternative to warfarin without coagulation monitoring or dose titration, reducing the risk of stroke by 62%.
A worldwide survey of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation found varying methods, effectiveness, and complications. The study reported a significant increase in procedures, but also noted major complications such as early deaths, strokes, and tamponade.
Patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for stroke and clotting complications, yet a significant percentage do not receive recommended clot-preventing medications. Asymptomatic patients should instead receive simple rate controlling drugs like beta-blockers, digitalis or verapamil.
The EURIDIS trial demonstrated that dronedarone significantly lowers the risk of first recurrence of AF/AFL within the 12-month study period by 21.6% compared to placebo. Dronedarone proved effective for all recurrences of atrial fibrillation or flutter, including those that were symptomatic.
A team of researchers has developed an implantable electronic device that can help doctors monitor heart rhythms and prevent atrial fibrillation (AF) attacks. The device uses lower energy shocks to terminate AF episodes, reducing pain and risk of complications.
A study found that regular tuna or broiled/baked fish consumption may reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in older adults. AF affects over 2 million Americans, causing fatigue, shortness of breath, and reduced exercise tolerance.
A new study links irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation with sleep disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. Patients with AF are twice as likely to have sleep apnea, highlighting the need for screening and treatment in high-risk patients.
Researchers are exploring innovative treatments for atrial fibrillation, including radio frequency ablation and gene transfer techniques. These methods aim to regulate the heart's irregular rhythm without the dangerous side effects of current medications.
A new analysis of 4,657 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery found that discontinuing beta blockers and ACE inhibitors can lead to abnormal accelerations in heart pumping known as atrial fibrillation. However, these medications also appear to offer protection against the condition. The study identified a risk index that c...
The PAVE study found that biventricular pacing improved cardiac function and functional capacity in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation undergoing ablate and pace therapy. In contrast, the DINAMIT study showed no overall mortality benefit of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy in patients following a recent acute...
A study analyzing SPORTIF III and V trials found that ximelagatran is at least as effective as warfarin in preventing strokes and systemic embolic events in men and women with atrial fibrillation. The analysis also showed lower bleeding rates for ximelagatran, particularly among women.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) have released joint clinical guidelines to manage atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition. The guidelines focus on controlling heart rate and stroke prevention with blood thinners, rather than restoring sinus rhythm.
A large study found warfarin to be highly effective in reducing the risk of ischemic stroke and thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation, even among those at moderate to high risk for stroke. Warfarin was also associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality.
The SPORTIF III study found that oral ximelagatran was at least as effective as warfarin in reducing the frequency of stroke or systemic blood clots, with a lower risk of bleeding. Ximelagatran may offer a safer alternative to warfarin for patients with atrial fibrillation and high stroke risk.
Researchers from Michigan Medicine report dramatic success in treating atrial fibrillation patients using radiofrequency catheter ablation, achieving high cure rates and low complication rates. The technique involves delivering intense radiofrequency waves to specific areas of disorganized electrical activity, resulting in a significan...
Atrial fibrillation is associated with decreased endocardial nitric oxide in the left atrial appendage, leading to increased superoxide levels and higher risk of blood clots. The study's findings may provide new avenues for therapeutic interventions in humans with AF.
A study by Duke University Medical Center cardiologists found that patients with atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure have similar mortality rates when treated with drugs controlling the heart's rhythm compared to those controlling the heart's rate. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 patients, also found no diff...
Patients with atrial fibrillation who receive adequate anticoagulation therapy have a reduced risk of stroke severity and complications. INR levels between 2.0-3.0 significantly reduce the risk of stroke, while lower levels increase the likelihood of fatal or debilitating strokes.
A recent JAMA article highlights that less than half of patients with atrial fibrillation are receiving warfarin therapy to reduce their risk of ischemic stroke. The scoring system developed by Thomas J. Wang and colleagues can easily stratify patients at high or low risk for stroke, enabling targeted treatment and counseling.