Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation

AbstractPurpose of ReviewAtrial fibrillation is associated with a significant increase in stroke and systemic embolism. This review explores the areas of stroke prevention.Recent FindingsIn the last decade, NOAC has overtaken warfarin as the anticoagulant of choice for stroke prevention in AF. For patients unable to take anticoagulation, LAA closure has proven to be a valid option. The use of digital devices has led to widespread consumer-directed AF screening. It remains to be determined if all device detect AF pose the same amount of risk as recent studies have shown that short and infrequent episodes of AF may not benefit from anticoagulation.SummaryStroke prevention is paramount in the management of AF. In this review we describe the risk factors contributing to stroke, recent advances in antithrombotic therapies, and the increasing role of digital health in guiding AF detection and stroke prevention.
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research