Predictors Of Left Atrial Thrombus 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.

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.

Risk factors for left atrial thrombus in younger patients (aged < 65 years) with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter: Data from the multicenter left atrial thrombus on transesophageal echocardiography (LATTEE) registry.

BackgroundOur aim was to assess the characteristics and to identify predictors of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in patients under age 65 with atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter (AFl).MethodsWe conducted a subanalysis of a multicenter, prospective, observational study [the LATTEE registry]. Consecutive AF/AFl patients referred for cardioversion or ablation were enrolled.ResultsOf the 3,109 patients included in the study, 1,276 were under age 65 (41%). Compared to non-LAT patients, those with LAT (n = 76) had higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (p < 0.001), more frequently had non-paroxysmal AF/AFl (p < 0.001), heart failure (p < 0.001), history of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.001), transient ischemic attack (p = 0.04), coronary artery disease (p = 0.02), and chronic kidney disease (p < 0.001). The LAT patients were also more often smokers (p = 0.004) and were more frequently treated with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) (p < 0.001). Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a higher left atrial area (p < 0.001), lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (p < 0.001), and lower value of LA appendage emptying volume in LAT than in non-LAT patients (p < 0.001). LVEF (OR 2.95; 95% CI: 1.32–6.59, p = 0.008), non-paroxysmal AF/AFl (OR 7.1; 95% CI: 2.05–24.63, p = 0.002) and treatment with VKAs (OR 4.92; 95% CI: 2.48–9.75, p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of LAT in younger patients.ConclusionsOur study, which focused on younger patients with AF/AFl, indicated substantial clinical and echocardiographic differences between participants with and without LAT. In the AF/AFl patients younger than age 65, the independent predictors of LAT included non-paroxysmal AF/AFl, lower LVEF, and treatment with VKAs.

Comment on "Predictors of left atrial thrombus in acute ischemic stroke patients without atrial fibrillation: a single-center cross-sectional study".

Comment on "Predictors of left atrial thrombus in acute ischemic stroke patients without atrial fibrillation: a single-center cross-sectional study".

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)

Genetic and Clinical Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombus: A Single Center Case-Control Study.

Left atrial (LA) thrombus formation is the presumed origin of thromboembolic complications in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Beyond clinical risk factors, the factors causing formation of LA thrombi are not well known. In this case-control study, we analyzed clinical characteristics and genetic thrombophilia markers (factor V Leiden (FVL), prothrombin G20210A (FIIV), Tyr2561 variant of von Willebrand factor (VWF-V)) in 42 patients with AF and LA thrombus (LAT) and in 68 control patients with AF without LAT (CTR). Patients with LAT had more clinical conditions predisposing to stroke (mean CHA2DS2-VASc-score 3.4 ± 1.5 vs. 1.9 ± 1.4; P < 0.001), a higher LA volume (96 ± 32 vs. 76 ± 21 ml, P = 0.002) and lower LA appendage emptying velocity (0.21 ± 0.11vs. 0.43 ± 0.19 m/s, P < 0.001). Prevalence of FVL, FIIV and VWF-V mutations was not different, but in the subgroup of patients <65 years (y) there was a tendency for a higher incidence of VWF-V with a prevalence of 27% (LAT <65 y) vs. 7% (CTR <65 y, P = 0.066). These findings warrant further investigation of the VWF-V as a risk factor for LA thrombogenesis in younger patients.

Incidence and predictors of left atrium thrombus in acute ischemic stroke patients without atrial fibrillation: a single center cohort study

Abstract Introduction The present study aimed to determine independent predictors of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in acute ischemic stroke patients without atrial fibrillation (AF) using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Material and methods In this single center, retrospective cohort study, we enrolled 149 consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients. All of the patients underwent TEE examination to detect LAT within 10 days following admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess independent predictors of LAT. Results Among all cases, 14 patients (9.3%) had a diagnosis of LAT on TEE examination. In a multivariate analysis; a previous diagnosis of cerebrovascular accident, elevated mean platelet volume (MPV), low left ventricle ejection fraction (EF) and a reduced left atrium appendix (LAA) peak emptying velocity were independent predictors of LAT. The area of MPV under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.57–0.83; p=0.011). With the optimal cut-off value of 9.45, MPV had a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 63% to predict LAT. Conclusion Patients with low ventricle EF and elevated MPV should undergo further TEE examination for the possibility of cardio-embolic source. In addition, this research may provide novel information with respect to the applicability of MPV to predict LAT in acute ischemic stroke patients without AF. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Predictors of left atrial thrombus in acute ischemic stroke patients without atrial fibrillation: A single-center cross-sectional study.

The present study aimed to determine independent predictors of left atrial thrombus (LAT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients without atrial fibrillation (AF) using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). In this single-center, retrospective study, we enrolled 149 consecutive AIS patients. All of the patients underwent a TEE examination to detect LAT within 10 days following admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess independent predictors of LAT. Among all cases, 14 patients (9.3%) had a diagnosis of LAT based on the TEE examination. In a multivariate analysis, elevated mean platelet volume (MPV), low left-ventricle ejection fraction (EF), creatinine, and reduced left-atrium appendix (LAA) peak emptying velocity were independent predictors of LAT. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for MPV was 0.70 (95%CI: 0.57-0.83; p = 0.011). With the optimal cut-off value of 9.45, MPV had a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 63% to predict LAT. AIS patients with low ventricle EF and elevated MPV should undergo further TEE examination to verify the possibility of a cardio-embolic source. In addition, this research may provide novel information with respect to the applicability of MPV to predict LAT in such patients without AF.

Routine Transesophageal Echocardiography in Atrial Fibrillation Before Electrical Cardioversion to Detect Left Atrial Thrombosis and Echocontrast.

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before electrical cardioversion (ECV) in atrial fibrillation (AF) is not routinely performed in anticoagulated patients. Starting from TEE findings of anticoagulated and non-anticoagulated patients referred for ECV, we investigated the rate of spontaneous echo-contrast (SEC) and left atrial thrombus (LAT) and identified their independent predictors. A total of 403 patients were included: 262 (65%) had no anticoagulation, 47 (11.7%) were onnovel oral anticoagulant (rivaroxaban), 74 (18.4%) on warfarin INR>2, and 20 (5.0%) on warfarin INR<2.In 41 (10.1%) there was LAT and in 154 (38.2%) SEC. Patients with LAT had a significantly lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF%) (p=0.001). Patients with SEC were significantly older (p=0.04), had lower LVEF% (p<0.0001),higher CHADSVASC score (p<0.0001), and higher rate of coronary artery disease (CAD) (p=0.03). In 56.8% of warfarin patients (INR>2) there was SEC (p=0.002). At multivariate analysis therapeutic anticoagulation with warfarin (p=0.003; OR:2.2; CI: 1.3-3.7),CHADSVASC score (p<0.0001; OR=1.2; CI: 1.1-1.4), and LVEF% (p<0.0001; OR:0.95; CI: 0.93-0.97; inverse relationship) were SEC predictors. A 3.5 CHADSVASC score cut-off was predictor of SEC (AUC: 0.7; p<0.0001). LVEF% was the only predictor of LAT (p=0.02; OR=0.96; CI: 0.93-0.99; inverse relationship). Echocardiography before ECV identifies clear LAT/SEC in more than a third of AF patients, independently by their anticoagulation regimen. LAT/SEC rates increasewith decrement of LVEF%. Increment of CHADSVASC score increases SEC risk. In anticoagulated patients SEC rate remains higher than expected. Therapeutic anticoagulation with Warfarin appears positively and independently correlated to SEC occurrence.

Heartbeat: Predictors of left atrial thrombus in patient with atrial fibrillation

Currently, the CHA2DS2-VASc score is the primary tool for assessing thromboembolic risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, other potentially relevant clinical variables have not been considered which might...

Incidence and predictors of left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation prior to ablation in the real world of China

BackgroundThe present study was to evaluate the value of CHADS2 and CHA2DS2VASC scores on predicting left atrial (LA) or left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients prior to ablation in the real world of China. Methods and resultsA total of 397 patients with non-valvular AF were analyzed to determine the relationship between CHADS2 and CHA2DS2VASC scores and LA/LAA thrombus identified on transesophageal echocardiography prior to radiofrequency ablation(RFA). LA/LAA thrombus was present in 38 patients (9.6%). There was a strong association between higher CHADS2 score or CHA2DS2VASC score and LA/LAA thrombus. No thrombus was identified in patients with CHA2DS2VASC score of 0 regardless of anticoagulation status. However, LA/LAA thrombus was detected in 2.9% patients with CHADS2 score of 0 without adequate anticoagulation, while no thrombus was present in the patients with CHADS2 score of 0 with adequate anticoagulation. Univariate analysis showed that heart failure (LVEF＜50%), LA≥40 mm, diabetes mellitus, previous stroke or TIA, CAD, hypertension, inadequate anticoagulation therapy, CHADS2 score of ≥2 and CHA2DS2VASC score of ≥2 were significantly associated with LA/LAA thrombus. Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that CHA2DS2VASC score of ≥2 (p = 0.02) and previous stroke or TIA (p = 0.04) were independently associated with LA/LAA thrombus regardless of anticoagulation status. ROC curve analysis showed that higher CHADS2 score and CHA2DS2VASC score could be similarly used to predict the presence of LA thrombus. ConclusionsBoth higher CHA2DS2VASC and CHADS2 scores were associated with LA/LAA thrombus in non-valvular AF patients prior to ablation. Although CHA2DS2VASC score and CHADS2 score had similar value to predict LA/LAA thrombus, CHA2DS2VASc score was better to identify low-risk patients for LA/LAA thrombus than CHADS2 score without anticoagulation. There will be a possibility of performing AF ablation or cardioversion in patients with a CHA2DS2VASC of 0 without TEE or anticoagulation therapy. The safety need to be verified by more multicentre randomized controlled clinical trails.

Predictive value of left atrial appendage lobes on left atrial thrombus or spontaneous echo contrast in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation

BackgroundLeft atrial appendage morphology has been proved to be an important predictor of left atrial thrombus (LAT) and left atrial spontaneous echo contrast (LASEC) and stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). However, the relation between left atrial appendage (LAA) lobes and LAT or LASEC is still unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between the number of left atrial appendage lobes and LAT/LASEC in patients with NVAF.MethodsThis monocentric cross-sectional study enrolled 472 consecutive patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, who had transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) prior to cardioversion or left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) from July 2009 to August 2015 in department of cardiology of Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital. Patients who had significant mitral or aortic valve disease, previous cardiac valvular surgery and other complicated cardiac diseases were excluded. Individuals were divided into two groups:the LAT/LASEC group (16.95%), which comprised patients with LAT or LASEC, as confirmed by TEE; and a negative control group (83.05%).Baseline overall group characterization with demographic, clinical, laboratory data and echocardiographic parameters, alongside with information on medication was obtained for all patients. Subgroup analysis with line chart was applied for exploring the association between LAA lobes and LAT/LAESC. Receptor-operating curves (ROC) were used to test the value of LA anteroposterior diameter detected by different echocardiography methods predicting LAT or LASEC. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to investigate independent predictors of LAT/LASEC.ResultsAmong 472 patients, 23 (4.87%) had LA/LAA thrombus and 57 (12.1%) had LA spontaneous echo contrast. Compared to the negative group, patients in LAT/LASEC group had higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (3.79 ± 1.75 vs 2.65 ± 1.76, p < 0.001), larger LAD (measured by TTE, 48.1 ± 7.7 vs 44.6 ± 6.5, P < 0.001; measured by TEE, 52.2 ± 6.2 vs 46.7 ± 7.1, P < 0.001), lower left upper pulmonary venous flow velocity (LUPVFV) (0.54 ± 0.17 m/s vs 0.67 ± 0.26 m/s, CI 95% 0.05–0.22, P = 0.003), more left atrial appendage lobes (1.67 ± 0.77 vs 1.25 ± 0.50, p < 0.001). There was a good discriminative capacity for LAD detected by TTE (area under the curve (AUC), 0.67, CI 95% 0.61–0.73, p < 0.001) and LAD detected by TEE (AUC, 0.73, CI 95% 0.67–0.79, p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis based on gender and different LAA lobes yielded similar results (male group: p < 0.001;female group: p = 0.004) that the number of LAA lobes were significantly associated with LA thrombus or SEC. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, both the number of LAA lobes (odds ratio: 2.37; CI 95% 1.37–4.09; p = 0.002) and the persistent AF (odds ratio: 3.57; CI 95% 1.68–7.57; p = 0.001) provided independent and incremental predictive value beyond CHA2DS2-VASc score.ConclusionThe number of LAA lobes is an independent risk factor and has a moderate predictive value for LAT/LASEC among NVAF patients in China.

NOACs and atrial fibrillation: Incidence and predictors of left atrial thrombus in the real world

AimsDespite optimal oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonist, left atrial (LA) thrombus could be detected in the left appendage (LAA) in >2% of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and CHA2DS2-VASc score≥1 but few data are available for patients treated with non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). We evaluated the occurrence and predictors of LA thrombi by means of transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) in consecutive patients with non-valvular AF who received for at least 3weeks Apixaban, Dabigatran, or Rivaroxaban. MethodsThis study included 414 consecutive patients (male 252, 60.6%, mean age 67.3years) referred to our Centers for catheter ablation of AF (n=220, 53.1%) or scheduled electrical cardioversion (n=194, 46.9%). Patients were on Dabigatran (n=160), Rivaroxaban (n=150) or Apixaban (n=104). TOE was performed in all cases within 12h prior to ablation or cardioversion. ResultsPreprocedural TOE revealed LA thrombus in 15/414 patients (3.6%), all located in the LAA (Apixaban 3/104 2.9%, Dabigatran 5/160 3.1%, and Rivaroxaban 7/150 4.7%, p=0.69). Of these, 14 patients had persistent AF. Patients with LAA thrombus had a mean CHA2DS2-VASc score of 3 (3–4). Higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (p=0.02), but not the type of NOAC, significantly predicted the presence of LA thrombus. ConclusionThe incidence of LAA thrombus in a cohort of patients anticoagulated with NOACs is low but not negligible, in any case similar among the 3 drugs. Preprocedural TOE should be considered in patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score>3.

Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombus and Short-Term Recurrence of Arrhythmia in Patients Undergoing Electrical Cardioversion for Atrial Fibrillation, a Single-Centre Experience

Background: Systemic thromboembolism is a serious complication of electrical cardioversion. Even in the absence of such complications there exists a significant rate of arrhythmia recurrence post cardioversion. Aims: The aim of this study was to identify factors that may aid clinicians in identifying those patients at increased risk of atrial thrombus formation and short-term arrhythmia recurrence. Methods: One-hundred and twelve patients were retrospectively identified across a 2.5 year period as having undergone electrical cardioversion at the Gold Coast University Hospital for atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Demographic, clinical and echocardiogram data was analysed to identify potential predictors of thrombus, unsuccessful cardioversion and arrhythmia recurrence. Results: Cardioversion was successful in 87.6% of patients. Cardioversion was more successful initially in males (p&lt;0.01) and those with reduced atrial volume (p&lt;0.01) and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (p&lt;0.01). Arrhythmia recurrence within 3 months occurred in 57.7% of patients. Recurrence was more likely in those with congestive heart failure (p&lt;0.05) and a longer pre-cardioversion duration of arrhythmia (p&lt;0.05). Spontaneous echo contrast was observed in 3 (2.6%) of patients, whilst left atrial thrombus was observed in 7 (6.2%) of patients. Potential predictors of thrombus were congestive heart failure (p&lt;0.05) and increased left atrial volume (p&lt;0.01). Conclusions: This retrospective study identified a number of factors that may useful in the clinical setting in predicting cardioversion success, both initially and short-term, in addition to predicting thrombus formation.

Predictors of Left Atrial Thrombus and Short-Term Recurrence of Arrhythmia in Patients Undergoing Electrical Cardioversion for Atrial Fibrillation, a Single-Centre Experience

Background: Systemic thromboembolism is a serious complication of electrical cardioversion. Even in the absence of such complications there exists a significant rate of arrhythmia recurrence post cardioversion. Aims: The aim of this study was to identify factors that may aid clinicians in identifying those patients at increased risk of atrial thrombus formation and short-term arrhythmia recurrence. Methods: One-hundred and twelve patients were retrospectively identified across a 2.5 year period as having undergone electrical cardioversion at the Gold Coast University Hospital for atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Demographic, clinical and echocardiogram data was analysed to identify potential predictors of thrombus, unsuccessful cardioversion and arrhythmia recurrence. Results: Cardioversion was successful in 87.6% of patients. Cardioversion was more successful initially in males (p&lt;0.01) and those with reduced atrial volume (p&lt;0.01) and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (p&lt;0.01). Arrhythmia recurrence within 3 months occurred in 57.7% of patients. Recurrence was more likely in those with congestive heart failure (p&lt;0.05) and a longer pre-cardioversion duration of arrhythmia (p&lt;0.05). Spontaneous echo contrast was observed in 3 (2.6%) of patients, whilst left atrial thrombus was observed in 7 (6.2%) of patients. Potential predictors of thrombus were congestive heart failure (p&lt;0.05) and increased left atrial volume (p&lt;0.01). Conclusions: This retrospective study identified a number of factors that may useful in the clinical setting in predicting cardioversion success, both initially and short-term, in addition to predicting thrombus formation.

Prevalence of Left Atrial Thrombus DetectionbyTransesophageal Echocardiography: A Comparison of Continuous Non-Vitamin K Antagonist OralAnticoagulant Versus Warfarin Therapy in Patients UndergoingCatheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether patients on≥4 weeks of continuous non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) therapy require transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter and to compare rates of left atrial (LA) thrombus and dense spontaneous echocardiographic contrast (SEC) in patients on NOAC versus warfarin therapy. The impact of NOAC therapy on the rates of LA thrombus detection by TEE in patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF is unknown. Initial TEEs for 388 patients (median age, 65 years; 74% male) on≥4 weeks of continuous NOAC (n= 183) or warfarin therapy (n= 205) undergoing catheter ablation of AF and flutter were reviewed. After≥4 weeks of therapy, the prevalence of LA thrombus and LA thrombus/dense SEC among patients on NOACs was 4.4% and 6.0%, respectively, which was comparable with that of patients on warfarin. LA thrombus rates among patients on dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban were 5.4%, 4.8%, and 0%, respectively (p= 0.46). Predictors of LA thrombus were congestive heart failure (odds ratio [OR]: 5.38; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.79 to 16.2; p=0.003); and persistent AF (OR: 3.27; 95% CI: 1.06 to 10.2; p= 0.040). Despite≥4 weeks of anticoagulation, the rate of LA thrombus in patients on NOACs before catheter ablation of AF or atrial flutter was 4.4%. This suggests that continuous NOAC therapy does not eliminate the need forTEE before catheter ablation of AF.

Impact of left atrium size on left atrial thrombus in patients with non-valvular persistent atrial fibrillation

This study sought to investigate the impact of left atrium size on left atrial (LA) thrombus in patients with non-valvular persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). In a prospectively established database, patients with AF underwent transesophageal echocardiography prior to AF ablation were screened from January 2007 to June 2010. Exclusive criteria included paroxysmal AF, vavular AF, deep vein thrombus, pulmonary embolism, on warfarin, redo procedure. Of 1 524 patients, 367 patients (male 267, female 100) with age 26-89 (mean 56±11) were enrolled. The patients were divided into LA thrombus group and non-thrombus group. Receptor-operating curves were used to test the value of CHA2DS2Vasc score and LA diameter predicting LA thrombus. Logistic analysis were used to find the independent predictor of LA thrombus. Thirty-two (8.7%) patients had LA thrombus. The LA diameter, left ventricular end diastolic diameter, left ventricular end systolic diameter were significantly larger in thrombus group than non-thrombus group. Left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly lower in thrombus group than non-thrombus group. CHA2DS2Vasc score did not differ between the two groups. The area under the receptor-operating curve for LA diameter predicting LA thrombus was 0.656 (0.563-0.750), the best cut-off point was 42.5 mm. The incidence of LA thrombus was significantly higher in patients with LA diameter≥42.5 mm than those with LA<42.5 mm (14.0% vs. 5.1%, χ2=8.888, P=0.003). In univariate analysis, LA diameter≥42.5 mm increased the risk of LA thrombus with odds ratio 3.05 (95% confidence interval 1.42-6.53, P=0.004. The sensitivity and specificity of LA diameter≥42.5 mm in predicting LA thrombus were 67.7% and 61.5%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, after adjustment of CHA2DS2Vasc score, left ventricular end diastolic diameter, left ventricular end systolic diameter, left ventricular ejection fraction, LA diameter≥42.5 mm was an independent risk factor of LA thrombus (odds ratio 2.77, 95% confidence interval 1.17-6.57, P=0.021). LA enlargement is an independent risk factor of LA thrombus in patients with non-vavular persistent AF.

Prevalence and predictors of left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation: is transesophageal echocardiography necessary before cardioversion?

Systemic embolization threatens patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The risk is enhanced at the time of cardioversion. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) prior to cardioversion to screen for left atrial thrombus (LAT), a marker of high risk for embolization, is recommended for many patients with AF. To determine clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with LAT formation in AF. Data from 600 consecutive patients with AF undergoing TEE prior to cardioversion for the detection of LAT were analyzed. Clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic parameters were abstracted from the clinical record. TEE identified LAT in 70 (11.6%) and dense (LA) spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) in 156 (26%). Baseline characteristics and echocardiographic parameters of patients with or without LAT are compared. A prior myocardial infarction, 21 (29.4 %) vs. 31 (5.8), (p < 0.001); hypertension, 60 (85.7%) vs. 386 (72.8), (p 0.02); CHADS(2) ≥ 2, 56 (80%) vs. 308 (58.1%), (p < 0.001) prevalence was higher in patients with LAT. Patients with LAT had lower ejection fraction 38.2 ± 15.6 vs. 46.2 ± 14.5, (p < 0.001); higher LA diameter 4.98 ± 0.7 vs. 4.52 ± 0.7, (p <0.001); dense LA SEC 44 (62.8) vs. 112 (21.1), (p < 0.001); and low LA appendage emptying velocity 21.7 ± 12.9 vs. 37.5 ± 19.4, (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis was done, and it revealed that low LA emptying velocity had the strongest independent association with LAT (HR 0.89 [CI 0.83-0.96], p value <0.001. LAT is not an uncommon finding of AF patients prior to cardioversion. The current practice of TEE examination may be justified since neither clinical nor routine 2D echo examinations reliably identify LAT.

GW25-e4474 Predictors of left atrial thrombus or spontaneous echo contrast in non-valvular atrial fibrillation

GW25-e4474 Predictors of left atrial thrombus or spontaneous echo contrast in non-valvular atrial fibrillation

Prediction of left atrial thrombi in patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias during warfarin administration: retrospective study in Hyogo College of Medicine

Some patients experience a left atrial thrombus (LAT) in spite of taking warfarin. We aimed to clarify the characteristics of patients with LAT during warfarin administration and investigated whether the CHADS2 or CHA2DS2-VASc scores are useful predictors of LAT. We studied 230 patients (169 males, age 65 ± 10 years) who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) prior to cardioversion or catheter ablation of atrial tachyarrhythmias between 2008 and 2012. All patients were taking oral warfarin. LAT was detected in 19 patients (8.3%) using TEE. LAT was significantly associated with the presence of hypertension (P = 0.0035), prior congestive heart failure (P < 0.0001), structural heart disease (P = 0.0012), persistent arrhythmias (P < 0.0001), the absence of SR during TEE (P = 0.0070), left ventricular ejection fraction (P < 0.0001), left atrial diameter (P = 0.0015), left ventricular dimension during end diastole (P = 0.0215), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH; P < 0.0001), and the E/e' ratio (P = 0.0074). A multivariate analysis showed that LVH (P = 0.0065, OR 5.591, 95% CI 1.618–19.316) and persistent arrhythmia (P = 0.0364, OR 12.121, 95% CI 1.171–125.451) were independently associated with LAT. Moreover, the mean CHADS2 (2.3 ± 0.9 vs. 1.4 ± 1.2) and CHA2DS2-VASc scores (3.8 ± 1.2 vs. 2.8 ± 1.7) were higher in the patients with than without LAT. However, a multivariate analysis showed that the CHADS2/CHA2DS2-VASc scores did not associate with LAT. LVH and persistent arrhythmia may be useful for predicting LAT in patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias.