Direct-acting oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease.

Abstract

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are an effective alternative to warfarin for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who require thromboembolic risk reduction. This article discusses the newly acceptable use of DOACs in patients with valvular AF, including native valvular heart disease and patients with bioprosthetic valves.