Left Atrial Thrombus In Patients Research Articles

Incidence and predictors of left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation under anticoagulation therapy.

Left atrial thrombus (LAT) formation is associated with thromboembolic events. To investigate the incidence and associated factors of LAT in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who had been receiving anticoagulation therapy for more than 4weeks, and to develop a prediction model using clinical and echocardiographic features. Medical records of 1,122 patients with AF (mean age, 59.4 ± 11.0years, 58.3% male) who were on anticoagulation more than 4weeks and underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were evaluated. The main outcome was the presence of LAT on TEE. Warfarin and non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants were used in 74.4% and 25.6% of the patients at the time of examination, respectively. LAT was present in 60 patients (5.3%). Presence of LAT on TEE was associated with age ≥ 75years (odds ratio [OR] 2.13 [95% confidence interval, 0.94-4.58]), persistent/permanent AF (OR 2.61 [1.42-4.93]), CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 3 points (OR 1.91 [1.05-3.48]), left ventricular ejection fraction < 40% (OR 2.35 [1.07-4.81]), and severe left atrial enlargement (OR 3.52 [1.89-6.79]). The presence of moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation was associated with a lower risk of LAT (OR 0.13 [0.04-0.34]). A scoring system composed of the aforementioned predictors showed excellent discrimination performance (area under the curve 0.791 [95% CI, 0.727-0.854]). LAT was present in a considerable number of patients who were already receiving anticoagulation therapy. A prediction model that combines clinical and echocardiographic predictors could be useful in distinguishing patients who require imaging evaluations before left atrial intervention.

Predictive value of nutritional indices for left atrial thrombus in patients with valvular atrial fibrillation

BackgroundThe prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) are well known indicators for adverse outcomes in various diseases, but there is no evidence on their association with the risk of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in patients with valvular atrial fibrillation (VAF).MethodsA comparative cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 433 VAF patients. Demographics, clinical characteristics and echocardiographic data were collected and analyzed. Patients were grouped by the presence of LAT detected by transesophageal echocardiography.ResultsLAT were identified in 142 patients (32.79%). The restricted cubic splines showed an L-shaped relationship between PNI and LAT. The dose-response curve flattened out near the horizontal line with OR = 1 at the level of 49.63, indicating the risk of LAT did not decrease if PNI was greater than 49.63. GNRI was negative with the risk of LAT and tended to be protective when greater than 106.78. The best cut-off values of PNI and GNRI calculated by receiver operating characteristics curve to predict LAT were 46.4 (area under these curve [AUC]: 0.600, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.541–0.658, P = 0.001) and 105.7 (AUC: 0.629, 95% CI:0.574–0.684, P<0.001), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that PNI ≤ 46.4 (odds ratio: 2.457, 95% CI:1.333–4.526, P = 0.004) and GNRI ≤ 105.7 (odds ratio: 2.113, 95% CI:1.076–4.149, P = 0.030) were independent predictors of LAT, respectively.ConclusionsLower nutritional indices (GNRI and PNI) were associated with increased risk for LAT in patients with VAF.

Serum Fibrinogen and Renal Dysfunction as Important Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombosis in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation.

As has been shown previously, patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have left atrial thrombus (LAT) also have elevated plasma concentrations of fibrinogen. In this study, we tried to determine if this is the consequence of a genetic trait and whether elevated concentrations of fibrinogen could be used to predict LAT in patients with AF. We recruited 181 consecutive patients scheduled for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) or direct current cardioversion. The primary endpoint was the presence of LAT on transesophageal echocardiography (TOE). We recorded routine clinical and biochemical data as well as the polymorphism type of the fibrinogen gene for the β chain. To control potentially interfering variables, we performed propensity score matching (PSM). Multivariable and univariable logistic regression models (LRM) were computed using the CHA2DS2-Vasc score, the fibrinogen concentration and creatinine clearance as estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault equation. 60 of 181 patients had LAT as detected by TOE. As expected, patients with LAT had significantly higher concentrations of fibrinogen (3.9 vs. 3.6 g/L); p = 0.01 in the unadjusted analysis. After performing PSM, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups, except for creatinine clearance (79.9 vs. 96.8 mL/min); p = 0.01. There were also no differences regarding the -455 G/A βfibrinogen polymorphism distribution between the two groups. After constructing the LRM, we found no performance enhancement for the CHA2DS2-Vasc score by adding the fibrinogen concentration or creatinine clearance alone, but when all three variables were put together, there was a significant improvement in LAT prediction (AUC 0.64 vs. 0.72), p = 0.026. Our study found no evidence of elevated levels of circulating fibrinogen in patients with LAT or a connection between those levels and the A/A and A positive polymorphism. When used together with renal function markers such as creatinine clearance, plasma fibrinogen concentrations can provide additional power to the CHA2DS2-Vasc score for predicting LAT.

Persistence of left atrial thrombus in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation.

We recently demonstrated that patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) have an increased risk of left atrial (LA) thrombus. In this study, we aimed to evaluate thrombus management, thrombus persistence, and thromboembolic events for HCM and non-HCM patients with AF and LA thrombus. From a cohort of 2,155 AF patients undergoing transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for any indication, this study included 122 patients with LA thrombus (64 HCM patients and 58 non-HCM controls). There was no difference in mean CHA2DS2-VASc scores between HCM and control patients (3.9 ± 2.2 vs 3.8 ± 2.0, p = 0.88). Ten (16%) and 4 (7%) patients in the HCM and control groups, respectively, were in sinus rhythm at the time of TEE identifying the LA thrombus (p = 0.13). In all patients, the anticoagulation strategy was modified after the LA thrombus diagnosis. A total of 36 (56%) HCM patients and 34 (59%) control patients had follow-up TEE at median 90 and 62days, respectively, after index TEE. The HCM group had significantly higher 90-day rates of persistent LA thrombus compared to the control group (88% vs 29%; p < 0.001). In adjusted models, HCM was independently associated with LA thrombus persistence. Among patients with LA thrombus, the 5-year cumulative incidence of thromboembolic events was 11% and 2% in HCM and control groups, respectively (p = 0.22). Among patients with AF with LA thrombus identified by TEE, those with HCM appear to have a higher risk of LA thrombus persistence than non-HCM patients despite anticoagulation.

Predictive Value of D-dimer Levels for Detection of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with Rheumatic Severe Mitral Stenosis

Background: Systemic embolism is one of the most common complications of mitral stenosis (MS). Systemic embolism in patients with MS is caused by left atrial (LA) thrombus. Trans Esophageal Echocardiography (TEE) is considered the most reliable in ruling out LA thrombus, however, it is semi-invasive, operator-dependent, and not widely available. On the other hand, D-dimer is an indirect marker of fibrin formation. It reflects the activation of coagulation system. Objective: To measure D-dimer levels in patients with and without LA thrombus and find out predictive value of D-dimer levels to detect LA thrombus. Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study 50 patients with rheumatic severe mitral stenosis have been assessed. Patients underwent Trans Thoracic Echocardiography (TTE) and TEE to rule out LA thrombus. If TTE showed LA thrombus, TEE was not done. Patients were divided into two groups based on presence of LA thrombus; group I- patients with LA thrombus, and group II- patients without LA thrombus. D-dimer level was measured in two groups and comparison was done. Results: D-dimer was significantly elevated in group I compared to group II (2.8±1.9 µg/ml vs. 0.43±0.13µg/ml, p&lt;0.001). Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) Curve showed D-dimer level &gt; 0.6 µg/ml can predict LA thrombus with sensitivity of 84% &amp; specificity of 88%. Conclusion: A higher level of D-dimer can predict LA thrombus in patients with rheumatic severe MS, and can be used as a noninvasive marker to rule out LA thrombus in patients with rheumatic severe MS. Bangladesh Medical Res Counc Bull 2022; 48(3): 231-235

Association of inflammation indices with left atrial thrombus in patients with valvular atrial fibrillation

BackgroundInflammation has been implicated in the progressive exacerbation of valvular atrial fibrillation (VAF) and thrombogenesis. This study aimed to analyze the association of systemic inflammation as measured by six indices with left atrial thrombus (LAT) in patients with VAF.MethodsThis comparative cross-sectional analytical study included 434 patients with VAF. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the predictive value of LAT using six inflammation indices: neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), white blood cell-to-mean platelet volume ratio, neutrophil-to-mean platelet volume ratio, systemic immune inflammation index, and systemic inflammation response index. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted, and the area under these curves (AUC) were calculated to evaluate the discriminative ability of the indices.ResultsTransesophageal echocardiography revealed LAT in 143 (32.9%) patients. All six indices reflected a positive correlation with C-reactive protein levels. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that these indices were independent predictors of LAT, and MLR appeared to perform best (odds ratio 12.006 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.404–42.347]; P < 0.001; AUC 0.639 [95% CI 0.583–0.694]; P < 0.001).ConclusionsSelected inflammatory indices were significantly and independently associated with LAT among patients with VAF.

Abstract 11864: Incidence and Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Under Standard Anticoagulation Therapy

Background: The left atrial thrombus (LAT) formation is associated with thromboembolic events in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Objective: We investigated the incidence and associated factors of LAT in patients with AF who already on standard anticoagulation therapy. Methods: Medical records of 1,122 AF patients (mean 59.4 ± 11.0 years old, 58.3% male) who were on standard anticoagulation and underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) from 2009 to 2019 were evaluated. Baseline clinical and echocardiographic data were analyzed. The main outcome of the study was the presence of LAT on TEE. The associated factors of the LAT were analyzed. Results: Warfarin and non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOAC) were used in 74.4% and 25.6% of the patients. Among these patients, LAT was found in 60 patients (5.3%). The significant predictors of the LAT on TEE were elders (&gt;75 years old, Odd ratio [OR] 1.99 [95% confidence interval 0.88-4.24]), persistent/permanent AF (OR 2.63 [1.45-4.95]), high CHA2DS2-VASc score (≥3 points, OR 2.06 [1.15-3.74]), low left ventricular ejection fraction (&lt;40%, OR 2.12 [0.97-4.33]), and moderate-severe left atrial enlargement (LAE) (OR 3.92 [1.95-8.59]). Moderate-severe mitral regurgitation (MR) was associated with lower odds for LAT (OR 0.146 [0.04-0.37]). We gave each variable a score according to its weight (-3 points for MR, 2 points for LAE, and 1 point for the rest). If our risk score is 3 or more, the rate of LAT increases to 8.7% or more. Conclusions: Several clinical and echocardiographic predictors were useful for predicting presence of LAT in AF patients who are already on anticoagulation treatment. Screening for LA thrombus before left atrial interventions such as cardioversion, ablation procedure, or appendage occluder, should be warranted in patients with high risk score.

The Value of D-Dimer Blood Concentrations in Prediction of Presence of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation

The Value of D-Dimer Blood Concentrations in Prediction of Presence of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation

Left atrial thrombus in atrial fibrillation/flutter patients in relation to anticoagulation strategy: LATTEE registry

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) and flutter (AFl) increase the risk of thromboembolism by promoting clot formation in the left atrium. Current guidelines recommend initiation of oral anticoagulation (OAC) with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) or, preferably, non-VKA-OACs (NOACs) in men and women with a CHA2DS2VASc score of ≥2 and ≥3, respectively. Effective OAC is also recommended 3 weeks before elective AF cardioversion or catheter ablation with pre-procedural ttransesophageal echocardiography (TEE) as an alternative. However, TEE before AF/AFl cardioversion or ablation is often performed even in anticoagulated patients, given that, in clinical practice, "effective" OAC may be difficult to achieve and/or verify. Purpose The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in AF/AFl in relation to OAC strategy. Methods The Left Atrial Thrombus on Transesophageal Echocardiography (LATTEE) registry was a prospective, observational study enrolling consecutive patients with AF or AFl in whom TEE was performed before direct current cardioversion or catheter ablation, hospitalized in 13 cardiology departments in Poland. Patients’ recruitment process started from November 2018 in the coordinating centre and lasted 12 months since the beginning of the study in each participating centre or longer, i.e., until the inclusion of at least 200 patients at each participating centre (with the last patient enrolled in May 2020). Results Of 3109 patients enrolled, 88% were on chronic, 1.5% on transient OAC and 10% without OAC. Of patients on chronic OAC, 39% received rivaroxaban, 30% dabigatran, 14% apixaban and 18% vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Patients on apixaban were oldest, had worst renal function and highest both bleeding and thromboembolic risk, and more often received reduced doses. Overall, prevalence of LAT was 8.0% (7.3% on chronic OAC vs. 15% without OAC; p&amp;lt;0.01). In patients on VKA, prevalence of LAT was doubled compared to patients on non-VKA-OACs (NOACs) (13% vs. 6.0%; p&amp;lt;0.01), even after propensity score matching (13% vs. 7.5%; p&amp;lt;0.01) and in multivariable logistic regression (OR 1.9, 95% confidence interval 1.4-2.8). Prevalence of LAT in patients on apixaban was higher (9.8%) than in those on rivaroxaban (5.7%) and dabigatran (4.7%; p&amp;lt;0.01 for both comparisons). However, in propensity score matching and multivariable logistic regression, there was no difference in the risk of LAT between apixaban and other NOACs. Conclusions Prevalence of LAT in AF is non-negligible even on chronic OAC. In the real-world AF/AFl population, the risk of LAT seems higher on VKA compared to NOAC, and similar between different NOACs.

Left Atrial Thrombus in Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter Patients in Relation to Anticoagulation Strategy: LATTEE Registry.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) and flutter (AFl) increase the risk of thromboembolism. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in AF/AFl in relation to oral anticoagulation (OAC). Methods: LATTEE (NCT03591627) was a multicenter, prospective, observational study enrolling consecutive patients with AF/AFl referred for transesophageal echocardiography before cardioversion or ablation. Results: Of 3109 patients enrolled, 88% were on chronic, 1.5% on transient OAC and 10% without OAC. Of patients on chronic OAC, 39% received rivaroxaban, 30% dabigatran, 14% apixaban and 18% vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Patients on apixaban were oldest, had the worst renal function and were highest in both bleeding and thromboembolic risk, and more often received reduced doses. Prevalence of LAT was 8.0% (7.3% on chronic OAC vs. 15% without OAC; p < 0.01). In patients on VKA, prevalence of LAT was doubled compared to patients on non-VKA-OACs (NOACs) (13% vs. 6.0%; p < 0.01), even after propensity score weighting (13% vs. 7.5%; p < 0.01). Prevalence of LAT in patients on apixaban was higher (9.8%) than in those on rivaroxaban (5.7%) and dabigatran (4.7%; p < 0.01 for both comparisons), however, not after propensity score weighting. Conclusions: The prevalence of LAT in AF is non-negligible even on chronic OAC. The risk of LAT seems higher on VKA compared to NOAC, and similar between different NOACs.

Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients With Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation: A Cross-Sectional Study in China.

BackgroundStroke is predominately attributed to left atrial thrombus (LAT) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), however, its detection rate in real clinical practice has been few reported in China.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of LAT in patients with NVAF in China.MethodsAll adult NVAF patients undergoing transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in the China Atrial Fibrillation Center database from January 2017 to January 2022 were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of LAT was calculated, and associated factors were identified.ResultsA total of 36,007 NVAF inpatients from 602 hospitals in 30 provinces/autonomous regions/municipalities were included in the final analysis, with a median age of 66 years and 39.4% were female. LAT was present in 1,467 (4.1%) patients overall, 2.7, 5.7, and 6.8% in patients with paroxysmal, persistent, and long-standing persistent AF, respectively. In subgroup analysis, including age ≥ 65 years, CHA2DS2-VASC score ≥ 2, left atrial diameter (LAD) ≥ 50 mm, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50%, and anticoagulation, patients with paroxysmal AF always had the lowest LAT prevalence, followed by patients with persistent and long-standing persistent AF. Patients treated with anticoagulants had less prevalent LAT than those without anticoagulation (2.1 vs. 5.0%, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, AF pattern (both persistent AF and long-standing persistent AF), hypertension, chronic heart failure, coronary heart disease, transient ischemic attack/stroke, diabetes mellitus, and LAD (per 5 mm) were associated with an increased prevalence of LAT. However, LVEF (per 5%) and anticoagulation were associated with a reduced prevalence of LAT.ConclusionLAT was found in 4.1% of Chinese adult NVAF inpatients underwent TEE in real-world experience. The prevalence of LAT mainly associated with non-paroxysmal AF, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, enlarged left atrium, lower LVEF, and lack of anticoagulation therapy.

Prevalence and Rate of Resolution of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: A Two-Center Retrospective Real-World Study.

Background and aim. Thromboembolic events due to left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis are the main complication of non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Although anticoagulants are effective in patients with NVAF, a minimal residual thromboembolic risk persists. Little is known about the prevalence of LAA thrombus and the rate of resolution after the recommended period of anticoagulation therapy, including vitamin K antagonists (VKA), heparin, and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Methods and results. We aimed to study the prevalence of LAA thrombus in an unselected cohort of patients undergoing transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), and the determinants of LAA thrombus resolution. We retrospectively analyzed 8888 consecutive TEEs performed over five years in two high-volume centers and included all patients with LAA thrombus. A total of 265 patients (3%) had an LAA thrombus. Among these, 97% presented with AF. Fifty-eight percent of patients were on anticoagulants at least three weeks before the diagnosis. After the LAA thrombus diagnosis, VKAs were prescribed in 52%, heparin in 18.5%, and NOAC in 27% of patients. Among the 183 patients with repeat TEE, performed at (25–75th) 39 days (21–84), 67% showed resolution of the LAA thrombus. Although the rate of thrombus resolution was higher in patients treated with NOACs (NOACs 71%, VKA 66%, Heparin 60%) the difference between anticoagulants was statistically non-significant (VKA, OR 0.9, p = 0.83; NOAC, OR 1.23, p = 0.42; heparin, OR 0.69, p = 0.35). Thus, NOACs were demonstrated to be at least as effective as other anticoagulants in the rate of LAA thrombus resolution. Upon multivariate-adjusted analysis, higher LAA emptying velocities were the only predictor of thrombus resolution. In conclusion, the majority of patients were already on anticoagulants. NOACs could be at least as effective as other anticoagulants, yielding an LAA thrombus resolution in two-thirds of patients. This may have clinical relevance, especially in patients undergoing cardioversion or catheter ablation.

Diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer to detect left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

There is conflicting evidence about the use of biomarkers to diagnose left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer to detect left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation. We searched 4 electronic databases from inception to December 16, 2020. The reference standard was left atrial thrombus detected by transesophageal echocardiography. Study quality was assessed with the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 tool. We used a bivariate model to calculate the pooled sensitivity and specificity with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The optimal cutoff and predictive values were also estimated. Eleven cross-sectional studies involving 4380 patients were included. The median prevalence of left atrial thrombus was 12%. In 7 studies, the pooled sensitivity of D-dimer at 500 ng/mL was 50% (95% CI 26%-74%) and the pooled specificity was 88% (95% CI 76%-95%). The pooled sensitivity of age-adjusted D-dimer was 36% (95% CI 14%-66%) and the pooled specificity was 99% (95% CI 96%-99%) in 2 studies. The optimal cutoff of D-dimer was 390 ng/mL in 10 studies with a pooled sensitivity of 68% (95% CI 44%-85%) and a pooled specificity of 73% (95% CI 54%-86%). The positive and negative predictive values were 21.8% and 95.4%, respectively. The risk of bias was low or unclear for all domains. Concerns about applicability were low for almost all studies. Our meta-analysis suggests that D-dimer has the potential to be useful to rule out left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer to detect left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background There is limited evidence on the use of biomarkers to diagnose left atrial thrombus in atrial fibrillation. Purpose We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer to detect left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation. Methods We searched four electronic databases from inception to December 16, 2020 for observational studies evaluating diagnostic accuracy of D-dimer. Reference standard was left atrial thrombus detected by transesophageal echocardiography. Study quality was assessed with the QUADAS-2 tool. We performed a bivariate random-effects meta-analysis to calculate the pooled sensitivity and specificity with their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). In addition, a summary receiver operating characteristic curve and optimal cut-off were estimated. Results Eleven cross-sectional studies involving 4380 patients were included. The mean age ranged from 49.8 to 74.1 years and 70% of patients were men. Left atrial thrombus was present in 7% of cases. In seven studies, the pooled sensitivity of D-dimer at 500 ng/mL was 53% (95% CI, 26–79%) and the pooled specificity was 92% (95% CI, 80–97%). The pooled sensitivity of age-adjusted D-dimer was 35% (95% CI, 18–57%) and the pooled specificity was 100% (95% CI, 100–100%) in two studies. The optimal cut-off was 390 ng/mL in 10 studies with a pooled sensitivity of 68% (95% CI, 44–85%) and a pooled specificity of 73% (95% CI, 54–86%). The risk of bias was low or unclear for all domains. Concerns regarding applicability were generally low for almost all studies Conclusion Our meta-analysis suggests that D-dimer has the potential to be useful to the detection of left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Prediction of left atrial thrombus in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation referred to catheter ablation or cardioversion: comparison of different risk scores

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background. Left atrial thrombus (LAT) is the main source of cardiac emboly in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NAF). Several risk scores – mostly modified CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc – were offered to predict LAT in patients with NAF. However, their relative predictive value requires further evaluation. Purpose. Compare the ability of different risk scores to predict LAT before catheter ablation or cardioversion in patients with NAF. Methods. In a retrospective single-center study, medical records of 1994 patients with NAF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography before catheter ablation or cardioversion were analyzed. LAT was identified in 33 (1.6%) of them. For the control group 167 patients without LAT were randomly selected from this database. Logistic regression analysis and C-statistic were used for evaluation and comparison of predictive values of CHADS2, R2CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, R-CHA2DS2-VASc, R2CHA2DS2-VASc, CHA2DS2-VASc-RAF, mCHA2DS2-VASc and CHA2DS2-VASc-AFR scores. Results. The mean age of studied patients was 60.3 ± 10.9 years, 110 (55%) of them were males. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 2.54 ± 1.79. Results of univariate analysis and C-statistic for above mentioned risk scores are presented in the table. Each of them was associated with LAT. In comparison with a CHA2DS2-VASc score C-statistic was significantly higher for CHA2DS2-VASc-RAF and CHA2DS2-VASc-AFR scores (p values 0.03 and 0.001 respectively). In multivariate analysis only CHA2DS2-VASc-RAF score was associated with LAT (OR 1.37; 95% CI 1.21-1.55, p &amp;lt; 0.0001). OR for LАT in patients with CHA2DS2-VASc-RAF &amp;gt;3 was 12.8 (95% CI 3.75-43.9; p &amp;lt; 0.0001) with sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values 90.6%, 57.1%, 33.3% and 58.9% respectively. Conclusion. In a group of patients with NAF and relatively low incidence of LAT all studied scores were associated with LAT and CHA2DS2-VASc-RAF score has appeared the most informative. Predictors of LAT in patients with NAF Risk stratification models OR (95% CI) p-value C-statistic (95% CI) CHADS2 2.12 (1.55-2.91) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.77 (0.68-0.85) R2CHADS2 2.00 (1.53-2.62) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.78 (0.69-0.87) CHA2DS2-VASc 1.65 (1.36-2.05) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.74 (0.65-0.84) R-CHA2DS2-VASc 1.64 (1.34-2.03) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.76 (0.66-0.85) R2CHA2DS2-VASc 1.59 (1.32-1.92) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.76 (0.66-0.85) CHA2DS2-VASc- RAF 1.35 (1.27-1.52) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.84 (0.76-0.91) mCHA2DS2-VASc 1.83 (1.42-2.35) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.75 (0.65-0.85) CHA2DS2-VASc-AFR 1.75 (1.41-2.17) &amp;lt;0.0001 0.80 (0.71-0.88)

Safety of catheter ablation of AF without pre- or periprocedural imaging for the detection of LA thrombus

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The need for pre- or peri-procedural imaging to rule out the presence of left atrial thrombus in patients undergoing catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear in the era of uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) regimen. We sought to examine the safety of catheter ablation in appropriately selected patients with paroxysmal AF without performing screening for left atrial thrombus. Methods Consecutive patients planned for radiofrequency AF catheter ablation between January 2016 and June 2020 were enrolled, and prospectively studied. All subjects were receiving uninterrupted anticoagulation with DOACs for at least 4 weeks before the procedure. All subjects were in sinus rhythm the day of the procedure. The primary outcome of the study was ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) during at 30 days. Results A total of 451 patients (age 59.7 ± 10.2 years, 289 males) with paroxysmal AF were included in the study. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 1.4 ± 1.2. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction and left atrial diameter were 60 ± 5% and 39.3 ± 4 mm, respectively. Regarding the anticoagulation regimen, apixaban was used in 197 (43.6%) patients, rivaroxaban in 148 (32.8%) patients, and dabigatran in 106 (23.5%) patients. None of the patients developed clinical ischemic stroke or TIA during the 30-day post-discharged period. Conclusions Catheter ablation can be safely performed in low-risk patients with paroxysmal AF without imaging for the detection of left atrial thrombus in the era of uninterrupted DOAC anticoagulation.

Association between Red Cell Distribution Width and Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients with Valvular Atrial Fibrillation

Background: Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a quantitative measure of variability in the size of circulating erythrocytes and previously shown to provide information concerning the prothrombotic status or adverse outcome of cardiovascular disease. Left atrial thrombus (LAT) is commonly detected in patients with valvular atrial fibrillation (VAF) due to rheumatic mitral valve stenosis (RMVS) but there is very limited data regarding the predictive value of RDW for the development of LAT in these patients.&#x0D; Aim: To determine the association between RDW and LAT in VAF patients.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 58 patients were included in a retrospective observational study between January 2016 to December 2016 in patients who admitted to Dr. Moewardi General Hospital, due to symptomatic VAF. Blood examination and transthoracic echocardiography were performed to all patients. LAT was defined as a fixed or mobile echogenic mass within left atrium (LA) and left atrial appendage (LAA). The RDW was compared between a patient with LAT or without LAT.&#x0D; Results: There were 28 patients (mean age: 46.2±13.3 years) in LAT(+) group and 30 patients (mean age: 45.6±11.5 years) in LAT(-) group. RDW was significantly higher in LAT(+) group (14.4±1.8% vs. 13.3±1.5%, p=0.010). The RDW was independent predictor of LAT by multivariate analysis (OR 1.619; p=0.020; 95% CI: 1.079-2.429). The cut-off RDW value for LAT was &gt;13.5% with a sensitivity of 73.3% and a specificity of 64.3% (area under curve=0.700; 95% CI: 0.562-0.838; p=0.009). The prevalence of LAT was significantly higher in patient with an RDW &gt;13.5% than in those with an RDW &lt;13.5 % (64.3% and 35.7%, p=0.002), with prevalence ratio 5.91.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study shows that a higher level of RDW has an association with the presence of LAT and an independent risk factor of LAT formation in patients with VAF.

Safety of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation without pre- or peri-procedural imaging for the detection of left atrial thrombus in the era of uninterrupted anticoagulation.

BackgroundThe need for pre‐ or peri‐procedural imaging to rule out the presence of left atrial thrombus in patients undergoing catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear in the era of uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) regimen. We sought to examine the safety of catheter ablation in appropriately selected patients with paroxysmal AF without performing screening for left atrial thrombus.Patients and MethodsConsecutive patients planned for radiofrequency AF catheter ablation between January 2016 and June 2020 were enrolled, and prospectively studied. All subjects were receiving uninterrupted anticoagulation with DOACs for at least 4 weeks before the procedure. All subjects were in sinus rhythm the day of the procedure. The primary outcome of the study was ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) during at 30 days.ResultsA total of 451 patients (age 59.7 ± 10.2 years, 289 males) with paroxysmal AF were included in the study. The mean CHA2DS2‐VASc score was 1.4 ± 1.2. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction and left atrial diameter were 60 ± 5% and 39.3 ± 4 mm, respectively. Regarding the anticoagulation regimen, apixaban was used in 197 (43.6%) patients, rivaroxaban in 148 (32.8%) patients, and dabigatran in 106 (23.5%) patients. None of the patients developed clinical ischemic stroke or TIA during the 30‐day post‐discharged period.ConclusionsCatheter ablation can be safely performed in low‐risk patients with paroxysmal AF without imaging for the detection of left atrial thrombus in the era of uninterrupted DOAC anticoagulation.

D-dimer blood concentrations to exclude left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation

ObjectiveLeft atrial (LA) thrombus is routinely excluded by transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) before cardioversion for non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). In the D-dimer blood concentrations to exclude LA thrombus in patients with...

The Efficacy of Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants in the Prevention of Left Atrial Thrombus in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Compared With Vitamin K Antagonists: A Meta-Analysis.

There is still a paucity of data on the efficacy of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in the prevention of left atrial thrombus (LAT) formation before cardioversion or catheter ablation. To assess the efficacy of NOACs in the prevention of LAT in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) compared with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), we conducted a meta-analysis. We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases. For meta-analysis, dichotomous variables were analyzed by using the odds ratios (OR) computed using the Mantel Haenszel method (random models). All results were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 13 studies (one randomized controlled investigation and 12 observational studies) were included in the meta-analysis. There was no statistically significant difference between the NOACs and VKAs groups with respect to the odds of LAT/LAAT formations (OR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.52-1.21; P = .29; (I2 = 14%). NOACs were as effective as VKAs in the prevention of LAT/LAAT formation in patients with NVAF. Though patients on NOACs therapy showed a lower incidence of LAT/LAAT formation compared with VKAs, it was not significant (P = .29).