Articles tagged with Atrial Fibrillation
A team of researchers found that widely accepted atrial fibrillation risk prediction algorithms do not accurately predict incidence when applied to electronic medical records. The study suggests that existing models may be incompatible with EMR data, leading to inconsistent predictions and potential misdiagnosis.
A new imaging technique can predict who is most at risk for stroke due to atrial fibrillation. The technique, called 'atrial 4D flow CMR,' detects blood flow velocity and can help reduce over-treatment of patients.
A Mayo Clinic study found that NOACs dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban are at least as effective as warfarin in preventing stroke in atrial fibrillation patients. However, apixaban was associated with lower major bleeding rates, while rivaroxaban had a higher risk of serious bleeding.
A large study found that atrial fibrillation is associated with a wide range of serious events, including heart attacks, chronic kidney disease, and sudden cardiac death. The risk of these events is higher than stroke, prompting calls for interventions to reduce non-stroke outcomes.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has released updated guidelines for managing atrial fibrillation, prioritizing the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) over warfarin. The new recommendations aim to improve patient outcomes and reduce stroke risk.
Atrial fibrillation, a common irregular heartbeat, is linked to genetic variations in genes controlled by Tbx5 and Pitx2. The study offers insights into the mechanisms underlying heart arrhythmias, potentially leading to targeted treatments for patients with AF.
The ENSURE-AF trial shows edoxaban as an effective and safe alternative to standard therapy, with comparable rates of stroke and bleeding events. Patients can start edoxaban 2 hours prior to cardioversion if they have access to transoesophageal echocardiography.
A large-scale clinical trial found that non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) can be safely used as an alternative to warfarin before cardioversion in atrial fibrillation patients. Edoxaban was shown to be equally effective as current use of warfarin, and expedited the process from initial standard treatment.
A new low-cost application has been developed to detect atrial fibrillation using a smartphone's accelerometer and gyroscope. The algorithm achieved sensitivity and specificity rates of over 95%, making it a promising tool for widespread screening and early detection.
A study found that alcohol-related hospitalization is associated with a doubled risk of ischemic stroke in low-risk patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. The study included over 25,000 patients and showed that age and alcohol-related hospitalization were significant predictors of stroke risk.
A study of over 43,000 patients with atrial fibrillation found that new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) provided similar stroke prevention to warfarin, but caused fewer bleeding incidents. NOACs were associated with a lower risk of intracranial bleeding, particularly when compared to warfarin.
The new guidelines aim to improve outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation by integrating input from different specialties. They recommend oral anticoagulation with NOACs as the first line treatment for eligible patients, and catheter ablation as a first line treatment for selected patients.
A study published in JAMA found that only 34% of patients with stable INR values while taking warfarin remained stable over the subsequent year, indicating that predicting stability is difficult. Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants may offer improved safety and efficacy but are more costly.
Researchers found an association between atrial fibrillation and smaller frontal lobe brain volumes in a recent study published in Heart Rhythm. The study examined the relationship between AF and brain volume using MRI, revealing that AF was associated with reduced frontal lobe volumes even after adjusting for other factors.
A recent study using a highly sensitive blood coagulation test called dielectric blood coagulometry (DBCM) found that non-Atrial Fibrillation patients with high CHADS2 scores exhibited hypercoagulability. DBCM detected small changes in blood coagulation, particularly in those at higher risk of stroke.
The American College of Cardiology has updated clinical performance and quality measures for treating adult patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. The new measures include inpatient setting, patient safety, and other domains to improve continuity of care.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that black individuals with atrial fibrillation have a significantly increased risk of stroke, heart failure, coronary heart disease (CHD), and all-cause mortality compared to white individuals. The rate differences for these outcomes were found to be approximately 1.5- to 2.0-fold greater in ...
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that blacks with atrial fibrillation have nearly double the risk of adverse outcomes compared to whites. The study analyzed data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study and found significant racial differences in outcomes related to AFib.
Researchers found nearly 40% of AF patients at intermediate to high risk for stroke treated with aspirin alone, despite previous data showing blood thinners more beneficial. The study highlights the need for cardiology specialists to adhere to standardized recommendations regarding the use of oral blood thinners.
A new study by Yale researchers suggests that a catheter-delivered device called the Watchman may be a more cost-effective treatment option for patients with atrial fibrillation. The device, which is permanently implanted in the opening of the left atrial appendage, prevents blood clots from forming and reducing the risk of stroke.
A new consensus paper defines and classifies atrial cardiomyopathies, which can lead to atrial fibrillation, strokes, and other complications. The guidelines also discuss the triggers of atrial fibrillation and provide advice on prevention and treatment options.
A study of nearly three million motor vehicle accident victims found atrial fibrillation associated with a higher risk of death, longer hospital stays, and increased costs. Patients with atrial fibrillation were more likely to die in the hospital and required longer stays and greater resources.
A 15-year study of 1.1 million patients with atrial fibrillation found that women are 23% more likely to be hospitalised for acute ischaemic stroke than men, regardless of age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or region. Women consistently had a higher risk of stroke hospitalization than men over the past 15 years.
Researchers found that female atrial fibrillation patients are less likely than men to receive blood thinning therapies. The study used a computerized decision support tool to review medical therapies for over 1,500 patients and found significant sex differences in treatment.
A study of nearly 35,000 women found that those developing new-onset atrial fibrillation had an increased risk of cancer over a 20-year period. The risk was highest for colon cancer and persisted even after adjusting for other factors.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that women with atrial fibrillation (AF) exhibit more symptoms, functional impairment, and poorer quality of life compared to men. However, women also demonstrated a higher risk-adjusted survival rate and lower cardiovascular death rate despite their AF-related challenges.
A study of over 1,100 patients who underwent mitral valve repair found that older age and preoperative atrial fibrillation significantly increased the risk of developing tricuspid regurgitation. The risk was further exacerbated by impaired heart function, with patients experiencing devastating effects from severe TR.
The MR CLEAN trial demonstrated the effectiveness of physical removal of blood clots in improving outcome for stroke patients. The HERMES collaboration found that patients with large ischemic core volumes can still benefit from thrombectomy, while the ACTION study showed promise with intravenous natalizumab for acute ischemic stroke. O...
A computerized decision support tool helps physicians and patients make informed decisions about blood thinning treatment to prevent strokes in individuals with atrial fibrillation. The tool, which takes into account patient characteristics and medical therapies, resulted in a significant reduction in deviations from recommended treatm...
Researchers found that patients treated with as-needed blood thinners and regular pulse monitoring had lower stroke risk compared to those taking long-term anticoagulation medications. The study showed minimal bleeding incidents and no strokes or transient ischemic attacks among participants.
A new study found that catheter ablation does not reduce the long-term risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Adult patients with the condition continue to have a significant risk of developing atrial fibrillation regardless of age at procedure.
A new study of over 10,000 patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and those without found that AF patients treated with warfarin had higher rates of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia. The study suggests that the efficacy of therapy is strongly associated with dementia risk.
A new study from Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found that atrial fibrillation patients taking warfarin require proper management to prevent kidney failure. The study showed that patients with low anticoagulation levels were at risk of developing kidney dysfunction and failure.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that well-managed warfarin therapy is associated with a low risk of complications in patients with atrial fibrillation. The annual incidence of all-cause mortality was 2.19%, and intracranial bleeding rates were 0.44%.
A new generation of blood thinners can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation without requiring frequent monitoring. However, careful consideration must be given to individual patient factors such as age and kidney function before prescribing these medications.
A recent case report found that a patient's activity tracker and smartphone helped identify the onset time of his atrial fibrillation, allowing for timely electrical cardioversion. The device provided critical information to medical providers, enabling more effective treatment decisions.
Research found that the death of a partner is linked to an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a condition that can lead to stroke and heart failure. The risk is highest among people under 60 and when the loss is least expected.
A new biomarker-based tool, 'ABC risk score,' allows for personalized treatment to prevent strokes with minimal bleeding complications. The app is available as a web-based instrument and will soon be available as an app.
The FIRE AND ICE trial showed that radiofrequency and cryoballoon ablation are equally effective in treating atrial fibrillation, with similar rates of recurrence and no significant differences in safety outcomes. Cryoballoon patients were more likely to experience phrenic nerve injury, but this was rare and resolved in most cases.
A new study found that two common treatments for post-operative atrial fibrillation, rhythm control and rate control, are equally safe and effective. The study, conducted by the Cardiothoracic Surgical Trials Network, showed that both strategies were associated with low rates of complications and no difference in hospital days.
A study found that patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) at highest stroke risk are often not prescribed the recommended oral anticoagulant therapy. The study included over 429,000 AF patients and found that only less than half of high-risk patients received an oral anticoagulant prescription.
Researchers found nearly half of AF patients at the highest stroke risk were not prescribed oral anticoagulants, highlighting a significant treatment gap. The study emphasizes the need to address barriers to anticoagulant prescription and optimize risks versus benefits for these high-risk patients.
Patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who practiced yoga for 12 weeks experienced improved quality of life, lower heart rates, and decreased blood pressure compared to those in a control group. Yoga may provide patients with AF a method to gain self-control over their symptoms.
A study of 31,951 US veterans found that older adults initiating warfarin therapy for atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of traumatic intracranial bleeding. Several factors, including dementia and labile INR, were identified as risk contributors.
The new CVIA journal published its second issue with a special focus on Electrophysiology. Key findings include strategies for preventing stroke in high-risk atrial fibrillation patients, catheter ablation as a cornerstone in AF management, and the role of multimodality imaging in substrate characterization.
A European Heart Rhythm Association/European Society of Cardiology survey found that patients with no schooling missed treatment targets more often and were less aware of bleeding risks. The study highlights the importance of providing user-friendly education about risk factors for stroke and adequate use of anticoagulants.
Researchers found that digoxin decreased levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides by 41% and 54%, respectively, in mice treated with high-dose digoxin. Digoxin also lowered LDL-cholesterol levels by 20%. The study suggests a potential link between the drug and reduced plaque buildup.
A new study found that flu vaccination is associated with a lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a heart condition linked to increased stroke risk. The study suggested that flu infection may trigger an inflammatory response that increases the risk of AF.
An irregular heartbeat is a stronger risk factor for stroke, heart disease, and death in women than in men. The cause is unclear, but the results support more aggressive treatment of risk factors in women.
Older men with central sleep apnea are at greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF), according to a recent study. The research suggests that addressing central sleep-disordered breathing may help prevent AF in this population.
Researchers found that weight loss significantly improves ablation success rates for patients with atrial fibrillation, with those who lose 10 pounds or more experiencing better outcomes. Maintaining weight and avoiding weight regain are also crucial for preventing AF recurrence.
Researchers found that asymptomatic AF doubles the risk of stroke and premature death compared to age and gender matched people without AF. Treating asymptomatic AF with anticoagulants can nearly completely reverse the increased risk of stroke.
Researchers found that Botox injections significantly reduced the risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) after bypass surgery. In contrast, saline injections showed no such benefit. The study's results could lead to Botox being used as a preventive measure for AF in patients undergoing heart bypass or valve repair.
A study found that pacemaker checks can identify asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), allowing for early initiation of anticoagulation to prevent strokes. The research involved 223 patients who received a pacemaker and showed that nearly all with undiagnosed AF needed anticoagulation to reduce stroke risk.
A study found that primary care physicians often misestimate stroke and bleeding risk in AFib patients, leading to inadequate treatment. This resulted in under- and over-prescription of oral anticoagulation therapy, increasing the risk of stroke and bleeding events.
A large meta-analysis of four studies involving nearly 250,000 individuals found no association between moderate coffee consumption and increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The study's results suggest that people who like coffee can safely continue to consume it in moderation without the risk of developing this condition.
The XANTUS study found that rivaroxaban is safe and effective for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation patients with low rates of bleeding and stroke. The study confirmed the positive benefit-risk profile of rivaroxaban established in clinical trials, demonstrating its efficacy and tolerability in real-world practice.
An 11-year study of over 425,000 patients found that atrial fibrillation's contribution to ischemic stroke risk was negligible in those with multiple comorbidities. The study suggests that stroke prevention should focus on the combined effects of multiple risk factors rather than a single factor.
A large-scale study found that cold weather is associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. The risk was highest during winter months and lowest in summer, with a 10% increase in risk for every 5°C decrease in daily temperature.
A recent study found that adding adenosine triphosphate to pulmonary vein isolation treatment for atrial fibrillation did not significantly reduce late recurrences of the condition. The study, which included 2,113 patients, used ATP to identify and address potential gaps in electrical conduction around the pulmonary veins.