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Clark A, Freedman B, Thomas L. Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source: Urgency for Improved Aetiological Understanding and Patient Treatment. Heart Lung Circ 2024; 33:9-11. [PMID: 38135592 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Clark
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia. https://twitter.com/AmyClarkPhD
| | - Ben Freedman
- Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Liza Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; South West Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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2
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Martín-Gómez C, Baños-Álvarez E, Isabel-Gómez R, Blasco-Amaro JA. Evaluation of the safety, efficacy, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of implantable Holter for prolonged monitoring in patients with previous stroke: a systematic review. GMS HEALTH INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGIES 2023; 17:Doc01. [PMID: 37869402 PMCID: PMC10587481 DOI: 10.3205/hta000137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation (AF), which is associated with cryptogenic stroke, is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the general population. Because AF is asymptomatic and intermittent, its detection rate increases with the duration of monitoring. The objective of this study is to review the available evidence on the safety, efficacy, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of AF diagnosis by prolonged monitoring with an implantable Holter monitor in adult patients with idiopathic or cryptogenic stroke of suspected cardioembolic origin, compared to conventional monitoring. Methods Two independent reviewers performed a systematic review of the literature, identifying relevant studies through a structured search of Medline (Ovid), EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library and the databases of national and international health technology assessment agencies. The quality of the included studies was assessed with AGREE-II, AMSTAR-2 and CHEC. GRADE criteria were used to summarise the evidence. Results Four of the 211 papers identified were included: 1 clinical practice guideline, 2 systematic reviews, and 1 economic evaluation. The quality of the evidence reviewed was low. An implantable Holter monitor might be more effective in detecting AF than conventional monitoring. Serious adverse events were similar in both groups. The economic evaluation suggests that the technology is cost-effective. Conclusions The available evidence suggests the diagnostic superiority of the implantable Holter monitor over the traditional Holter monitor. Due to the low quality of the evidence, further and higher quality studies on these technologies are needed before solid conclusions can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Martín-Gómez
- Área de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias de Andalucía (AETSA), Fundación Pública Andaluza Progreso y Salud, Seville, Spain
| | - Elena Baños-Álvarez
- Área de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias de Andalucía (AETSA), Fundación Pública Andaluza Progreso y Salud, Seville, Spain
- Servicio de Salud Pública. Distrito Sanitario de Atención Primaria, Seville, Spain
| | - Rebeca Isabel-Gómez
- Área de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias de Andalucía (AETSA), Fundación Pública Andaluza Progreso y Salud, Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Blasco-Amaro
- Área de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias de Andalucía (AETSA), Fundación Pública Andaluza Progreso y Salud, Seville, Spain
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3
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Chew BLA, Garcia‐Esperon C, Dunkerton S, Spratt NJ. Pilot experience using a portable electrocardiography device for atrial fibrillation detection in an outpatient stroke clinic. Aust J Rural Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Beng Lim Alvin Chew
- Department of Neurology John Hunter Hospital Newcastle New South Wales Australia
| | - Carlos Garcia‐Esperon
- Department of Neurology John Hunter Hospital Newcastle New South Wales Australia
- College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing University of Newcastle New Lambton Heights New South Wales Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute Newcastle New South Wales Australia
| | - Sophie Dunkerton
- Department of Neurology John Hunter Hospital Newcastle New South Wales Australia
| | - Neil J. Spratt
- Department of Neurology John Hunter Hospital Newcastle New South Wales Australia
- College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing University of Newcastle New Lambton Heights New South Wales Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute Newcastle New South Wales Australia
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4
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Del Buono MG, Sanna T. Atrial fibrillation: focus on monitoring strategies after cryptogenic stroke. Minerva Cardiol Angiol 2022; 70:606-615. [PMID: 35080356 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5683.21.05851-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is responsible for up to one-third of ischemic strokes, with stroke potentially being the first manifestation of a previously undetected AF. Given the efficacy of oral anticoagulants in preventing AF-related ischemic events, searching for unknown AF after stroke requires a comprehensive diagnostic workup. Prospective data have demonstrated the benefits of long-term cardiac monitoring to identify AF in association with cryptogenic stroke, as most strokes are presumed to result from AF. However, strategies of empirical anticoagulation using oral anticoagulants following cryptogenic stroke failed to improve outcomes. We herein summarize contemporary evidence and knowledge gaps on searching for AF after a stroke and the potential secondary prevention strategies to prevent further recurrences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tommaso Sanna
- Sacred Heart Catholic University, Rome, Italy -
- IRCCS A. Gemelli University Polyclinic Foundation, Rome, Italy
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5
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Sagris D, Harrison SL, Buckley BJR, Ntaios G, Lip GYH. Long-Term Cardiac Monitoring After Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source: Search Longer, Look Harder. Am J Med 2022; 135:e311-e317. [PMID: 35580719 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) represents a heterogeneous subgroup of patients with cryptogenic stroke, in which despite an extensive diagnostic workup the cause of stroke remains uncertain. Identifying covert atrial fibrillation among patients with ESUS remains challenging. The increasing use of cardiac implanted electronic devices (CIED), such as pacemakers, implantable defibrillators, and implantable loop recorders (ILR), has provided important information on the burden of subclinical atrial fibrillation. Accumulating evidence indicate that long-term continuous monitoring, especially in selected patients with ESUS, significantly increases the possibility of atrial fibrillation detection, suggesting it may be a cost-effective tool in secondary stroke prevention. This review summarizes available evidence related to the use of long-term cardiac monitoring and the use of implantable cardiac monitoring devices in patients with ESUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Sagris
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stephanie L Harrison
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Benjamin J R Buckley
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
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6
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Ximénez-Carrillo Á, Zapata-Wainberg G, Sastre R, Álvarez-Pasquín MJ, Javierre AP, Lozano T, Samir E, Perosanz L, González B, Sobrado M, Vivancos J. Detection of hidden atrial fibrillation in primary care using a long-term band-based ECG registration system: The DESCUUBRE-FA study. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2022; 31:106642. [PMID: 35863263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2022.106642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether the use of a band-based electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring system improves the diagnostic accuracy of traditional diagnostic methods for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS Multicenter and observational study of primary care patients at risk of AF. To be included, patients had to be aged ≥70 years, with no known AF, and have at least 1 major criterion (obesity, hyperthyroidism, heart failure) or 2 minor criteria (hypertension, diabetes, female sex, ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack or systemic embolism, COPD, dyslipidemia, ischemic heart disease, peripheral artery disease). All patients were monitored using the Nuubo™ system for a single 2-week period. RESULTS A total of 600 patients were included (median age 77 years; 70% women; 84.3% hypertension, 27.2% diabetes, 9.2% prior stroke). The global rate of diagnosis of new AF in the overall population was 2.83%. All patients with AF were anticoagulated. In numerical terms, patients with AF (vs no AF) had a higher number of supraventricular extrasystoles and episodes of supraventricular tachycardia, as well as longer P wave duration; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance. Overall, participants were very satisfied with the device, and no relevant limitations in daily activities were observed during the 2-week study period. CONCLUSIONS In an elderly population at risk of AF, a band-based ECG monitoring approach applied for only 2 weeks detected approximately 3% of new cases of AF, leading to a change in antithrombotic therapy. Most participants considered the device easy to use and comfortable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Ximénez-Carrillo
- Stroke Center, Neurology Department, La Princesa Health Research Institute, University Hospital La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gustavo Zapata-Wainberg
- Stroke Center, Neurology Department, La Princesa Health Research Institute, University Hospital La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Sastre
- Primary Care University Center Santa Hortensia, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Eva Samir
- Primary Care University Center Canal de Panamá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lara Perosanz
- Primary Care University Center Ciudad Jardín, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz González
- Stroke Center, Neurology Department, La Princesa Health Research Institute, University Hospital La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica Sobrado
- Stroke Center, Neurology Department, La Princesa Health Research Institute, University Hospital La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Vivancos
- Stroke Center, Neurology Department, La Princesa Health Research Institute, University Hospital La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Skrebelyte-Strøm L, Rønning OM, Dahl FA, Steine K, Kjekshus H. Prediction of occult atrial fibrillation in patients after cryptogenic stroke and transient ischaemic attack: PROACTIA. Europace 2022; 24:1881-1888. [PMID: 35819199 PMCID: PMC9733955 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Studies with implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs) show that one-third of patients with cryptogenic stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA) have episodes of subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF) and benefit switching from antiplatelet- to anticoagulant therapy. However, ICMs are costly and resource demanding. We aimed to build a score based on participant's baseline characteristics that could assess individual risk of SCAF. METHODS AND RESULTS In a prospective study, 236 eligible patients with a final diagnosis of cryptogenic stroke/TIA had an ICM implantated during the index hospitalization. Pre-specified evaluated variables were: CHA2DS2-VASc, P-wave duration, P-wave morphology, premature atrial beats (PAC)/24 h, supraventricular tachycardia/24 h, left atrial end-systolic volume index (LAVI), Troponin-T, NT-proBNP, and D-dimer. SCAF was detected in 84 patients (36%). All pre-specified variables were significantly associated with SCAF detection in univariate analysis. P-wave duration, followed by PAC/24 h, NT-proBNP, and LAVI, had the largest ratio of SCAF prevalence between its upper and lower quartiles (3.3, vs. 3.2, vs. 3.1 vs. 2.8, respectively). However, in a multivariate analysis, only PAC/24t, P-wave duration, P-wave morphology, and LAVIs remained significant predictors and were included in the PROACTIA score. Subclinical atrial fibrillation prevalence was 75% in the highest vs. 10% in the lowest quartile of the PROACTIA score with a 10-fold higher number of patients with an atrial fibrillation burden >6 h in the highest vs. the lowest quartile. CONCLUSION The PROACTIA score can identify patients with cryptogenic stroke/TIA at risk of subsequent SCAF detection. The large difference in SCAF prevalence between groups may provide a basis for future tailored therapy. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02725944.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ole Morten Rønning
- Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway,University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fredrik A Dahl
- Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway,Norwegian Computing Center, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjetil Steine
- Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway,University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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8
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Diagnostic sensitivity and cost per diagnosis of ambulatory cardiac monitoring strategies in unexplained syncope patients. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270398. [PMID: 35749428 PMCID: PMC9231770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosing cardiac pauses that could produce syncopal episodes is important to guide appropriate therapy. However, the infrequent nature of these episodes can make detection challenging with conventional monitoring (CM) strategies with short-term ECG monitors. Insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) continuously monitor for arrhythmias but present a higher up-front cost. It is not well understood whether these higher costs are offset by the costs of repeat evaluation in CM strategies. We simulated the likelihood of diagnostic success and cost-per-diagnosis of pause arrhythmias with CM strategies compared to ICM monitoring. ICM device data from syncope patients diagnosed with pause arrhythmias was utilized to simulate patient pathways and diagnostic success with CM. We assumed that detected true pause episodes (≥5 seconds) were symptomatic and prompted a hospital encounter and further evaluation with CM. Subsequent true pause episodes in yet-undiagnosed patients triggered additional rounds of CM. Costs of monitoring were accrued at each encounter and represent the U.S. payer perspective. Cost per diagnosed patient was calculated as the total costs accrued for all patients divided by the number of patients diagnosed, across 1,000 simulations. During a mean 505±333 days of monitoring ICM detected 2.4±2.7 pause events per patient, with an average of 109±94 days until the first event. CM was projected to diagnose between 13.8% (24-hour Holter) and 30.2% (two 30-day monitors) of the ICM-diagnosed patients. Total diagnostic costs per ICM-diagnosed patient averaged $7,847, whereas in the CM strategies average cost-per-diagnosis ranged from $12,950±2,589 with 24-hour Holter to $32,977±14,749 for two 30-day monitors. Relative to patients diagnosed with pause arrhythmias via ICM, CM strategies diagnose fewer patients and incur higher costs per diagnosed patient.
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9
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So WZ, Tan FL, Tan DJH, Ng CH, Yong JN, Syn N, Tang ASP, Wong RC, Lin W, Tan EXX, Huang DQ, Dan YY, Chew NWS, Siddiqui MS, Muthiah MD. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of pre-existing and new-onset atrial fibrillation on outcomes before and after liver transplantation. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:614-621. [PMID: 34896025 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly diagnosed cardiac arrhythmia. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, as it is a major risk factor for cerebral vascular accidents (CVA). Our aim was to determine the prevalence of pre-existing and new-onset AF among patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) and its impact on post-transplant outcomes. METHODS Medline and Embase were searched. Single-arm analysis was conducted using the generalized linear mixed model to determine the prevalence of pre-existing and new-onset AF. Logistic regression was performed to analyze risk factors. Comparative meta-analysis in odds ratio was conducted for binary outcomes. RESULTS Twenty articles were included, with 17 studies on pre-existing AF, and 7 including data on new-onset AF post-LT. The prevalence of pre-existing AF was 3.3% (CI 2.3-4.7) (14 studies, 45,070 patients) in pooled analysis. Significantly higher prevalence of pre-existing AF patients from North America was noted when compared to Europe (4.5%, CI 3.4-5.8 vs 1.5%, CI 0.8-2.7; p = 0.001). Body mass index (BMI), history of hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease (CAD), and cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) were risk factors for pre-existing AF. Pre-existing AF was significantly associated with major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCE) postoperatively (OR 8.02, 95%CI 5.40-11.90, p < 0.001). New-onset AF post-LT had an incidence of 6.8% (CI 4.9-9.3), and was associated with increased risk of mortality (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.76-3.02, p < 0.001) and graft failure (OR 2.98, CI 1.99-4.47, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION AF is relatively more common among patients undergoing LT compared to the general non-transplant population. Additionally, it is associated with adverse outcomes including MACCE, thus warranting clinical attention. Thorough cardiac assessment, and close surveillance of post-operative AF may be clinically prudent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zheng So
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore
| | - Felicia Liying Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore
| | - Darren Jun Hao Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore
| | - Cheng Han Ng
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore.
| | - Jie Ning Yong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore
| | - Nicholas Syn
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Biostatistics and Modelling Domain, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ansel Shao Pin Tang
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore
| | - Raymond C Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Center, Singapore
| | - Weiqin Lin
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Center, Singapore
| | - Eunice Xiang Xuan Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Tower Block Level 10, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119228, Singapore; National University Center for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Daniel Q Huang
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Tower Block Level 10, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119228, Singapore; National University Center for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Yock Young Dan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Tower Block Level 10, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119228, Singapore; National University Center for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Nicholas W S Chew
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Center, Singapore
| | - Mohammad Shadab Siddiqui
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Mark D Muthiah
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, 117597, Singapore; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Tower Block Level 10, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119228, Singapore; National University Center for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore.
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10
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Bonini N, Vitolo M, Imberti JF, Proietti M, Romiti GF, Boriani G, Paaske Johnsen S, Guo Y, Lip GYH. Mobile health technology in atrial fibrillation. Expert Rev Med Devices 2022; 19:327-340. [PMID: 35451347 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2022.2070005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobile health (mHealth) solutions in atrial fibrillation (AF) are becoming widespread, thanks to everyday life devices such as smartphones. Their use is validated both in monitoring and in screening scenarios. In the published literature, the diagnostic accuracy of mHealth solutions wide differs, and their current clinical use is not well established in principal guidelines. AREAS COVERED mHealth solutions have progressively built an AF-detection chain to guide patients from the device's alert signal to the health care practitioners' (HCPs) attention. This review aims to critically evaluate the latest evidence regarding mHealth devices and the future possible patient's uses in everyday life. EXPERT OPINION The patients are the first to be informed of the rhythm anomaly, leading to the urgency of increasing the patients' AF self-management. Furthermore, HCPs need to update themselves about mHealth devices use in clinical practice. Nevertheless, these are promising instruments in specific populations, such as post-stroke patients, to promote an early arrhythmia diagnosis in the post-ablation/cardioversion period, allowing checks on the efficacy of the treatment or intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Bonini
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Vitolo
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jacopo Francesco Imberti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Proietti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Francesco Romiti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Søren Paaske Johnsen
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research (DACS), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Yutao Guo
- Department of Pulmonary Vessel and Thrombotic Disease, Sixth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research (DACS), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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11
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Jung S, Lee HA, Kang IS, Shin SH, Chang Y, Woo Shin D, Park MS, Kim YD, Nam HS, Heo JH, Kim TH, Yu HT, Lee JM, Heo SH, Woo HG, Park JK, Roh SY, Kim CK, Lee YS, Do JK, Kim DH, Song TJ, Park J. Clinical Implications of Atrial Fibrillation Detection Using Wearable Devices in Patients With Cryptogenic Stroke (CANDLE-AF) Trial: Design and Rationale. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:837958. [PMID: 35445088 PMCID: PMC9013795 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.837958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although many electrocardiography wearable devices have been released recently for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF), there are few studies reporting prospective data for wearable devices compared to the strategy of the existing guidelines in the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) after cryptogenic stroke. A tiny single-patch monitor is more convenient than a conventional Holter monitor recording device and, therefore, longer duration of monitoring may be acceptable. Methods and Design The CANDLE-AF study is a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. Patients with transient ischemic attack or ischemic stroke without any history of AF will be enrolled. The superiority of the 72-h single-patch monitor to standard strategy and non-inferiority of the 72-h single-patch monitor to an event-recorder-type device will be investigated. Single-patch monitor arm will repeat monitoring at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, event-recorder-type arm will repeat monitoring twice daily for 12 months. The enrollment goal is a total of 600 patients, and the primary outcome is the detection of AF which continues at least 30 s during study period. The secondary outcome is the rate of changes from antiplatelet to anticoagulant and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events within 1 year. Conclusions The results of CANDLE-AF will clarify the role of a single-lead patch ECG for the early detection of AF in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In addition, the secondary outcome will be analyzed to determine whether more sensitive AF detection can affect the prognosis and if further device development is meaningful. (cris.nih.go.kr KCT0005592).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodam Jung
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Ah Lee
- Clinical Trial Center, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - In Sook Kang
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Shin
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Chang
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong Woo Shin
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Moo-Seok Park
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Dae Kim
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyo Suk Nam
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Hoe Heo
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Tae-Hoon Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Severance Cardiovascular Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hee Tae Yu
- Division of Cardiology, Severance Cardiovascular Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung Myung Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Hyuk Heo
- Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ho Geol Woo
- Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin-Kyu Park
- Division of Cardiology, Hanyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Young Roh
- Devision of Cardiology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chi Kyung Kim
- Department of Neurology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Soo Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Daegu Catholic University Medical Center, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jin Kuk Do
- Department of Neurology, Daegu Catholic University Medical Center, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Dong-Hyeok Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Dong-Hyeok Kim
| | - Tae-Jin Song
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
- Tae-Jin Song
| | - Junbeom Park
- Division of Cardiology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
- Junbeom Park
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12
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Roy AT, Schwamm LH, Singhal AB. Use of Prolonged Cardiac Rhythm Monitoring to Identify Atrial Fibrillation After Cryptogenic Stroke. Curr Cardiol Rep 2022; 24:337-346. [PMID: 35171442 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-022-01652-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Prolonged cardiac monitoring (PCM) improves detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) after cryptogenic stroke. We summarize current research supporting the use of PCM as part of the cryptogenic stroke evaluation, while highlighting areas that require more investigation. RECENT FINDINGS Despite increased AF detection with longer durations of PCM, more definitive research is needed to demonstrate how PCM improves clinical outcomes. The optimal type, timing, and length of cardiac monitoring after cryptogenic stoke remains unknown. Clinical calculators will be important to risk stratify which cryptogenic stroke patients are most likely to benefit from PCM. Currently, AF detection after cryptogenic stroke should prompt consideration of anticoagulation, but it is unclear if all durations and timing of AF after stroke should be treated the same. PCM remains an important part of the cryptogenic stroke work up, and detection of AF allows for anticoagulation initiation. Additional research is needed to further refine our application of PCM to cryptogenic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis T Roy
- Stroke Service, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Lee H Schwamm
- Stroke Service, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Aneesh B Singhal
- Stroke Service, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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13
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Tanaka Y, Matsumoto M, Yahata T, Mineki T, Oiwa K. Two Cases of Multiple Thromboembolism With Asymptomatic Atrial Fibrillation. Cureus 2022; 14:e21645. [PMID: 35233322 PMCID: PMC8881121 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A 70-year-old woman was brought to our hospital by ambulance due to syncope and hemiparalysis. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and an electrocardiogram (ECG) showed the cerebral infarction and ST elevation without chest pain. The neurological findings were improved at the emergency outpatient service, therefore an emergency coronary angiography and aspiration for the thrombus was performed for acute myocardial infarction. An electrocardiogram monitor revealed asymptomatic and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) on the third day. In the other case, an 88-year-old woman was admitted to ambulatory care for abdominal pain, and the abdominal ultrasound showed findings of splenic infarction. Although there were no chest symptoms, AF was observed on the electrocardiogram at the time of admission. And endoscopic ultrasonography and brain MRI during hospitalization showed splenic infarction and multiple infarctions. Here, we report two cases with multiple thromboembolic complications associated with asymptomatic AF.
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14
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McIntyre WF, Wang J, Benz AP, Johnson L, Connolly SJ, Van Gelder IC, Lopes RD, Gold MR, Hohnloser SH, Lau CP, Israel CW, Wong JA, Conen D, Healey JS. Estimated incidence of previously undetected atrial fibrillation on a 14-day continuous electrocardiographic monitor and associated risk of stroke. Europace 2022; 24:1058-1064. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
There is uncertainty about whether and how to perform screening for atrial fibrillation (AF). To estimate the incidence of previously undetected AF that would be captured using a continuous 14-day ECG monitor and the associated risk of stroke.
Methods and results
We analysed data from a cohort of patients >65 years old with hypertension and a pacemaker, but without known AF. For each participant, we simulated 1000 ECG monitors by randomly selecting 14-day windows in the 6 months following enrolment and calculated the average AF burden (total time in AF). We used Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for CHA2DS2-VASc score to estimate the risk of subsequent ischaemic stroke or systemic embolism (SSE) associated with burdens of AF > and <6 min. Among 2470 participants, the median CHA2DS2-VASc score was 4.0, and 44 patients experienced SSE after 6 months following enrolment. The proportion of participants with an AF burden >6 min was 3.10% (95% CI 2.53–3.72). This was consistent across strata of age and CHA2DS2-VASc scores. Over a mean follow-up of 2.4 years, the rate of SSE among patients with <6 min of AF was 0.70%/year, compared to 2.18%/year (adjusted HR 3.02; 95% CI 1.39–6.56) in those with >6 min of AF.
Conclusions
Approximately 3% of individuals aged >65 years with hypertension may have more than 6 min of AF detected by a 14-day ECG monitor. This is associated with a stroke risk of over 2% per year. Whether oral anticoagulation will reduce stroke in these patients is unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F McIntyre
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jia Wang
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Alexander P Benz
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Linda Johnson
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Stuart J Connolly
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle C Van Gelder
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renato D Lopes
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael R Gold
- Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Stefan H Hohnloser
- Department of Electrophysiology, J.W. Goetshe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Chu-Pak Lau
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Carsten W Israel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Evangelical Hospital Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jorge A Wong
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - David Conen
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, 237 Barton St E C3-109, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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15
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Baman JR, Mathew DT, Jiang M, Passman RS. Mobile Health for Arrhythmia Diagnosis and Management. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:188-197. [PMID: 34282532 PMCID: PMC8288067 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07007-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Palpitations are a common symptom managed by general practitioners and cardiologists; atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults. The recent commercial availability of smartphone-based devices and wearable technologies with arrhythmia detection capabilities has revolutionized the diagnosis and management of these common medical issues, as it has placed the power of arrhythmia detection into the hands of the patient. Numerous mobile health (mHealth) devices that can detect, record, and automatically interpret irregularities in heart rhythm and abrupt changes in heart rate using photoplethysmography (PPG)- and electrocardiogram-based technologies are now commercially available. As opposed to prescription-based external rhythm monitoring approaches, these devices are more inexpensive and allow for longer-term monitoring, thus increasing sensitivity for arrhythmia detection, particularly for patients with infrequent symptoms possibly due to cardiac arrhythmias. These devices can be used to correlate symptoms with cardiac arrhythmias, assess efficacy and toxicities of arrhythmia therapies, and screen the population for serious rhythm disturbances such as AF. Although several devices have received clearance for AF detection from the United States Food & Drug Administration, limitations include the need for ECG confirmation for arrhythmias detected by PPG alone, false positives, false negatives, charging requirements for the battery, and financial cost. In summary, the growth of commercially available devices for remote, patient-facing rhythm monitoring represents an exciting new opportunity in the care of patients with palpitations and known or suspected dysrhythmias. Physicians should be familiar with the evidence that underlies their added value to patient care and, importantly, their current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson R Baman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Daniel T Mathew
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael Jiang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rod S Passman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Arrhythmia Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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16
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Koh KT, Law WC, Zaw WM, Foo DHP, Tan CT, Steven A, Samuel D, Fam TL, Chai CH, Wong ZS, Xaviar S, Bhavnani CD, Tan JSH, Oon YY, Said A, Fong AYY, Ong TK. Smartphone electrocardiogram for detecting atrial fibrillation after a cerebral ischaemic event: a multicentre randomized controlled trial. Europace 2021; 23:1016-1023. [PMID: 33782701 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a preventable cause of ischaemic stroke but it is often undiagnosed and undertreated. The utility of smartphone electrocardiogram (ECG) for the detection of AF after ischaemic stroke is unknown. The aim of this study is to determine the diagnostic yield of 30-day smartphone ECG recording compared with 24-h Holter monitoring for detecting AF ≥30 s. METHODS AND RESULTS In this multicentre, open-label study, we randomly assigned 203 participants to undergo one additional 24-h Holter monitoring (control group, n = 98) vs. 30-day smartphone ECG monitoring (intervention group, n = 105) using KardiaMobile (AliveCor®, Mountain View, CA, USA). Major inclusion criteria included age ≥55 years old, without known AF, and ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) within the preceding 12 months. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. The index event was ischaemic stroke in 88.5% in the intervention group and 88.8% in the control group (P = 0.852). AF lasting ≥30 s was detected in 10 of 105 patients in the intervention group and 2 of 98 patients in the control group (9.5% vs. 2.0%; absolute difference 7.5%; P = 0.024). The number needed to screen to detect one AF was 13. After the 30-day smartphone monitoring, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients on oral anticoagulation therapy at 3 months compared with baseline in the intervention group (9.5% vs. 0%, P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Among patients ≥55 years of age with a recent cryptogenic stroke or TIA, 30-day smartphone ECG recording significantly improved the detection of AF when compared with the standard repeat 24-h Holter monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keng Tat Koh
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Wan Chung Law
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Win Moe Zaw
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Diana Hui Ping Foo
- Clinical Research Centre, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Chen Ting Tan
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Anderson Steven
- Department of Medicine, Neurology Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Desmond Samuel
- Department of Medicine, Miri Hospital, Jalan Cahaya, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Tem Lom Fam
- Department of Medicine, Miri Hospital, Jalan Cahaya, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Ching Hua Chai
- Department of Medicine, Miri Hospital, Jalan Cahaya, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Zhai Sing Wong
- Department of Medicine, Miri Hospital, Jalan Cahaya, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Sivaraj Xaviar
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Chandan Deepak Bhavnani
- Department of Medicine, Bintulu Hospital, Jalan Bukit Nyabau, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Jason Seng Hong Tan
- Department of Medicine, Bintulu Hospital, Jalan Bukit Nyabau, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Yen Yee Oon
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Asri Said
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Alan Yean Yip Fong
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia.,Clinical Research Centre, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Tiong Kiam Ong
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Centre, 3rd Roundabout, Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
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17
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Dickson EL, Ding EY, Saczynski JS, Han D, Moonis M, Fitzgibbons TP, Barton B, Chon K, McManus DD. Smartwatch monitoring for atrial fibrillation after stroke—The Pulsewatch Study: Protocol for a multiphase randomized controlled trial. CARDIOVASCULAR DIGITAL HEALTH JOURNAL 2021; 2:231-241. [PMID: 35265913 PMCID: PMC8890084 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvdhj.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder that elevates stroke risk. Stroke survivors undergo routine heart rhythm monitoring for AF. Smartwatches are capable of AF detection and potentially can replace traditional cardiac monitoring in stroke patients. Objective The goal of Pulsewatch is to assess the accuracy, usability, and adherence of a smartwatch-based AF detection system in stroke patients. Methods The study will consist of two parts. Part I will have 6 focus groups with stroke patients, caretakers, and physicians, and a Hack-a-thon, to inform development of the Pulsewatch system. Part II is a randomized clinical trial with 2 phases designed to assess the accuracy and usability in the first phase (14 days) and adherence in the second phase (30 days). Participants will be randomized in a 3:1 ratio (intervention to control) for the first phase, and both arms will receive gold-standard electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring. The intervention group additionally will receive a smartphone/smartwatch dyad with the Pulsewatch applications. Upon completion of 14 days, participants will be re-randomized in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group will receive the Pulsewatch system and a handheld ECG device, while the control group will be passively monitored. Participants will complete questionnaires at enrollment and at 14- and 44-day follow-up visits to assess various psychosocial measures and health behaviors. Results Part I was completed in August 2019. Enrollment for Part II began September 2019, with expected completion by the end of 2021. Conclusion Pulsewatch aims to demonstrate that a smartwatch can be accurate for real-time AF detection, and that older stroke patients will find the system usable and will adhere to monitoring.
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18
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Liran O, Banon T, Grossman A. Detection of occult atrial fibrillation with 24-hour ECG after cryptogenic acute stroke or transient ischaemic attack: A retrospective cross-sectional study in a primary care database in Israel. Eur J Gen Pract 2021; 27:152-157. [PMID: 34240675 PMCID: PMC8274499 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2021.1947237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ischaemic stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) due to occult atrial fibrillation (AF) may cause severe morbidity and mortality. Diagnosing occult AF can be challenging and there is no consensus regarding the optimal duration of screening. A 24-hour Holter electrocardiogram (ECG) is frequently employed to detect occult AF following ischaemic CVA. Objectives Demonstration of occult AF detection rate using a 24-hour Holter ECG in a primary care setting with descriptive analyses of independent variables to compare AF detected and non-detected patients. Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study utilised primary care data and included patients 50 years and older with a new CVA or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) diagnosis followed by a 24-hour Holter examination within 6 months, between 01 January 2013 and 01 June 2019. The analyses included descriptive statistics comparing demographics and clinical characteristics in patients who had AF or Atrial Flutter (AFL) detection to those who did not. Results Out of 5015 eligible patients, 66 (1.3%) were diagnosed with AF/AFL, with a number needed to screen of 88.5. Compared with those without AF/AFL detection, those diagnosed were older (75.42 ± 7.89 vs. 69.89 ± 9.88, p = 0.050), had a higher prevalence of hypertension (80.3% vs. 66.8%, p = 0.021) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (71.2% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.001). Conclusion 24-hour Holter has a low AF/AFL detection rate. Older persons and those with hypertension or CKD are more likely to be detected with AF/AFL using this method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ori Liran
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamar Banon
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Alon Grossman
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Department of Internal Medicine B, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
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19
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Elkind MSV, Wachter R, Verma A, Kowey PR, Halperin JL, Gersh BJ, Ziegler PD, Pouliot E, Franco N, Reiffel JA. Use of the HAVOC Score to Identify Patients at Highest Risk of Developing Atrial Fibrillation. Cardiology 2021; 146:633-640. [PMID: 34157712 DOI: 10.1159/000517827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell S V Elkind
- Departments of Neurology and Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rolf Wachter
- University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- University Medicine Göttingen and German Cardiovascular Research Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Atul Verma
- Southlake Regional Health Center, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter R Kowey
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, USA
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20
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Bolaji P, Das S, Ahmad N. JAK 2 positive myeloproliferative neoplasm presenting as stroke, recurrent TIA and isolated third nerve palsy. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/6/e242270. [PMID: 34112633 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-242270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A man in his early 40s with no significant vascular risk factors was managed within a period of 6 months for recurrent vascular events: ischaemic stroke, transient ischaemic attack and isolated third nerve palsy. He was extensively investigated throughout the course of illness. The only potential aetiological factor identified was a positive janus kinase 2 (JAK 2) mutation after screening on account of mildly elevated platelet count noted during his most recent admission. Bone marrow aspiration confirmed essential thrombocythaemia. He was started on hydroxycarbamide and has remained relatively symptom free since then.This case reiterates the known associations between thrombosis and JAK 2 mutation even without overt myeloproliferative neoplasms. It also highlights the need for specialists in stroke to consider screening for JAK 2 mutation in a young patient with cryptogenic stroke with or without polycythemia or thrombocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Bolaji
- Stroke Medicine, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Saugata Das
- Stroke Medicine, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Nasar Ahmad
- Stroke Medicine, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK
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21
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Baman JR, Cox JL, McCarthy PM, Kim D, Patel RB, Passman RS, Wilcox JE. Atrial fibrillation and atrial cardiomyopathies. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2021; 32:2845-2853. [PMID: 33993617 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia among adults. While there have been incredible advances in the management of AF and its clinical sequelae, investigation of atrial cardiomyopathies (ACMs) is becoming increasingly more prominent. ACM refers to the electromechanical changes-appreciated subclinically and/or clinically-that underlie atrial dysfunction and create an environment ripe for the development of clinically apparent AF. There are several subtypes of ACM, distinguished by histologic features. Recent progress in cardiovascular imaging, including echocardiography with speckle-tracking (e.g., strain analysis), cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and atrial 4-D flow CMR, has enabled increased recognition of ACM. Identification of ACM and its features carry clinical implications, including elevating a patient's risk for development of AF, as well as associations with outcomes related to catheter-based and surgical AF ablation. In this review, we explore the definition and classifications of ACM, its complex relationship with clinical AF, imaging modalities, and clinical implications. We propose next steps for a more unified approach to ACM recognition that can direct further research into this complex field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson R Baman
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - James L Cox
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Patrick M McCarthy
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel Kim
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ravi B Patel
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rod S Passman
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Center for Arrhythmia Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jane E Wilcox
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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22
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Edwards SJ, Wakefield V, Jhita T, Kew K, Cain P, Marceniuk G. Implantable cardiac monitors to detect atrial fibrillation after cryptogenic stroke: a systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2021; 24:1-184. [PMID: 31944175 DOI: 10.3310/hta24050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptogenic stroke is a stroke for which no cause is identified after standard diagnostic tests. Long-term implantable cardiac monitors may be better at diagnosing atrial fibrillation and provide an opportunity to reduce the risk of stroke recurrence with anticoagulants. OBJECTIVES The objectives were to assess the diagnostic test accuracy, clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of three implantable monitors [BioMonitor 2-AF™ (Biotronik SE & Co. KG, Berlin, Germany), Confirm Rx™ (Abbott Laboratories, Lake Bluff, IL, USA) and Reveal LINQ™ (Medtronic plc, Minneapolis, MN, USA)] in patients who have had a cryptogenic stroke and for whom no atrial fibrillation is detected after 24 hours of external electrocardiographic monitoring. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects and Health Technology Assessment databases were searched from inception until September 2018. REVIEW METHODS A systematic review was undertaken. Two reviewers agreed on studies for inclusion and performed quality assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Results were discussed narratively because there were insufficient data for synthesis. A two-stage de novo economic model was developed: (1) a short-term patient flow model to identify cryptogenic stroke patients who have had atrial fibrillation detected and been prescribed anticoagulation treatment (rather than remaining on antiplatelet treatment) and (2) a long-term Markov model that captured the lifetime costs and benefits of patients on either anticoagulation or antiplatelet treatment. RESULTS One randomised controlled trial, Cryptogenic Stroke and underlying Atrial Fibrillation (CRYSTAL-AF) (Sanna T, Diener HC, Passman RS, Di Lazzaro V, Bernstein RA, Morillo CA, et al. Cryptogenic stroke and underlying atrial fibrillation. N Engl J Med 2014;370:2478-86), was identified, and no diagnostic test accuracy study was identified. The CRYSTAL-AF trial compared the Reveal™ XT (a Reveal LINQ predecessor) (Medtronic plc) monitor with standard of care monitoring. Twenty-six single-arm observational studies for the Reveal devices were also identified. The only data for BioMonitor 2-AF or Confirm Rx were from mixed population studies supplied by the companies. Atrial fibrillation detection in the CRYSTAL-AF trial was higher with the Reveal XT than with standard monitoring at all time points. By 36 months, atrial fibrillation was detected in 19% of patients with an implantable cardiac monitor and in 2.3% of patients receiving conventional follow-up. The 26 observational studies demonstrated that, even in a cryptogenic stroke population, atrial fibrillation detection rates are highly variable and most cases are asymptomatic; therefore, they probably would not have been picked up without an implantable cardiac monitor. Device-related adverse events, such as pain and infection, were low in all studies. The de novo economic model produced incremental cost effectiveness ratios comparing implantable cardiac monitors with standard of care monitoring to detect atrial fibrillation in cryptogenic stroke patients based on data for the Reveal XT device, which can be related to Reveal LINQ. The BioMonitor 2-AF and Confirm RX were included in the analysis by making a strong assumption of equivalence with Reveal LINQ. The results indicate that implantable cardiac monitors could be considered cost-effective at a £20,000-30,000 threshold. When each device is compared incrementally, BioMonitor 2-AF dominates Reveal LINQ and Confirm RX. LIMITATIONS The cost-effectiveness analysis for implantable cardiac monitors is based on a strong assumption of clinical equivalence and should be interpreted with caution. CONCLUSIONS All three implantable cardiac monitors could be considered cost-effective at a £20,000-30,000 threshold, compared with standard of care monitoring, for cryptogenic stroke patients with no atrial fibrillation detected after 24 hours of external electrocardiographic monitoring; however, further clinical studies are required to confirm their efficacy in cryptogenic stroke patients. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42018109216. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 5. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Edwards
- British Medical Journal (BMJ) Technology Assessment Group, London, UK
| | | | - Tracey Jhita
- British Medical Journal (BMJ) Technology Assessment Group, London, UK
| | - Kayleigh Kew
- British Medical Journal (BMJ) Technology Assessment Group, London, UK
| | - Peter Cain
- British Medical Journal (BMJ) Technology Assessment Group, London, UK
| | - Gemma Marceniuk
- British Medical Journal (BMJ) Technology Assessment Group, London, UK
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Alexeenko V, Howlett PJ, Fraser JA, Abasolo D, Han TS, Fluck DS, Fry CH, Jabr RI. Prediction of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation From Complexity Analysis of the Sinus Rhythm ECG: A Retrospective Case/Control Pilot Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:570705. [PMID: 33679427 PMCID: PMC7933455 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.570705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, conveying a stroke risk comparable to persistent AF. It poses a significant diagnostic challenge given its intermittency and potential brevity, and absence of symptoms in most patients. This pilot study introduces a novel biomarker for early PAF detection, based upon analysis of sinus rhythm ECG waveform complexity. Sinus rhythm ECG recordings were made from 52 patients with (n = 28) or without (n = 24) a subsequent diagnosis of PAF. Subjects used a handheld ECG monitor to record 28-second periods, twice-daily for at least 3 weeks. Two independent ECG complexity indices were calculated using a Lempel-Ziv algorithm: R-wave interval variability (beat detection, BD) and complexity of the entire ECG waveform (threshold crossing, TC). TC, but not BD, complexity scores were significantly greater in PAF patients, but TC complexity alone did not identify satisfactorily individual PAF cases. However, a composite complexity score (h-score) based on within-patient BD and TC variability scores was devised. The h-score allowed correct identification of PAF patients with 85% sensitivity and 83% specificity. This powerful but simple approach to identify PAF sufferers from analysis of brief periods of sinus-rhythm ECGs using hand-held monitors should enable easy and low-cost screening for PAF with the potential to reduce stroke occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Alexeenko
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa J Howlett
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - James A Fraser
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Abasolo
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Thang S Han
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Ashford, United Kingdom
| | - David S Fluck
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Ashford, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher H Fry
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Rita I Jabr
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
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24
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Sawyer LM, Witte KK, Reynolds MR, Mittal S, Grimsey Jones FW, Rosemas SC, Ziegler PD, Kaplon RE, Yaghi S. Cost-effectiveness of an insertable cardiac monitor to detect atrial fibrillation in patients with cryptogenic stroke. J Comp Eff Res 2020; 10:127-141. [PMID: 33300381 DOI: 10.2217/cer-2020-0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: We assessed cost-effectiveness of insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) in a US cryptogenic stroke population. Materials & methods: We modelled lifetime costs and quality-adjusted life years for three monitoring strategies post cryptogenic stroke: ICM starting immediately, ICM starting after Holter monitoring (delayed ICM) and standard of care involving intermittent ECG and Holter monitoring. Patient characteristics and detection efficacy were based on the CRYSTAL-AF trial. AF detection altered the modelled anticoagulation therapy and subsequent stroke and bleed risks. Results & conclusion: Immediate ICM was found to be cost-effective versus standard of care and cost-saving versus delayed ICM. Results were robust to sensitivity analyses. ICMs are a cost-effective diagnostic tool for the prevention of recurrent stroke in a US cryptogenic stroke population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Sawyer
- Symmetron Limited, 8 Devonshire Square, London, EC2M 4PL, UK
| | - Klaus K Witte
- Leeds Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Matthew R Reynolds
- Baim Institute for Clinical Research, Boston, MA & Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington, MA 02215-1212, USA
| | - Suneet Mittal
- The Snyder Center for Comprehensive Atrial Fibrillation, the Valley Health System, Ridgewood, NJ 07652, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Shadi Yaghi
- Department of Neurology, New York Langone Hospital, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA
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Xu J, Sethi P, Biby S, Allred J, Seiler A, Sabir R. Predictors of atrial fibrillation detection and features of recurrent strokes in patients after cryptogenic stroke. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2020; 29:104934. [PMID: 32807411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.104934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Use of implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs) has increased diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) in cryptogenic stroke (CS) patients. Identifying AF predictors may enhance the yield of AF detection. Recurrent strokes after CS are not well described. We aimed to assess the predictors for AF detection and the characteristics of recurrent strokes in patients after CS. METHODS We reviewed electronic medical records of CS patients who were admitted between February 2014 and September 2017 and underwent ICM placement with minimum one-year follow-up. Patient demographics, stroke characteristics, pre-defined risk factors as well as recurrent strokes were compared between patients with and without AF detection. RESULTS 389 patients with median follow-up of 548 days were studied. AF was detected in 102 patients (26.2%). Age (per decade increase, OR 2.10, CI 1.64-2.68, with vs. without AF) and left atrium diameter (per 5 mm increase, OR 1.91, CI 1.33-2.74) were identified as AF predictors. Intracranial large vessel stenosis >50% irrelevant to the index strokes was associated with AF detection within 30 days (OR 0.24, CI 0.09-0.69, >30 vs. <30 days). Recurrent strokes occurred in 14% patients with median follow-up about 2.5 years. Topography of these strokes resembled embolic pattern and was comparable between patients with and without AF. Among recurrent strokes in patients with AF, the median time to AF detection was much shorter (90 vs. 251 days), and the median time to first stroke recurrence was much longer (422 vs. 76 days) in patients whose strokes recurred after AF detection than those before AF detection. CONCLUSIONS Older age and enlarged left atrium are predictors for AF detection in CS patients. Intracranial atherosclerosis is more prevalent in patients with early AF detection within 30 days. Recurrent strokes follow the embolic pattern, and early AF detection could delay the stroke recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindong Xu
- Cone Health Stroke Center, Greensboro, NC, United States; Guilford Neurologic Research, Greensboro, NC, United States.
| | - Pramod Sethi
- Cone Health Stroke Center, Greensboro, NC, United States; Guilford Neurologic Research, Greensboro, NC, United States; Guilford Neurologic Associates, Greensboro, NC, United States.
| | - Sharon Biby
- Cone Health Stroke Center, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - James Allred
- Cone Health Medical Group HeartCare, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Amber Seiler
- Cone Health Medical Group HeartCare, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Rizwan Sabir
- Guilford Neurologic Research, Greensboro, NC, United States
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26
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Öner A, Lips T, Walter U, Storch A, Ince H, Caglayan E, Yücel S, Ortak J, Schmidt C. Detection of arrhythmia using an implantable cardiac monitor following a cryptogenic stroke: a single-center observational study. Eur J Med Res 2020; 25:25. [PMID: 32600384 PMCID: PMC7325047 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-020-00424-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) after cryptogenic stroke (CS) has therapeutic implications, but the most effective type and optimal duration of monitoring have still to be defined. This study that involved patients with CS or transient ischemic attack (TIA), all of whom carried an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM), sought to assess the incidence of AF and other arrhythmia detected using tele-monitoring or interval-based follow-up by an internal cardiologist at the university medical center of Rostock (UMR) or an external cardiologist. Methods The ICM implantation was performed during the inpatient stay in the neurology department, with inclusion and exclusion criteria jointly determined by the neurology and cardiology departments. Cardiologists programmed individual threshold values during ICM implantation, which were designed to instantly trigger an episode being recording and an alarm message being sent out. Outpatient care consisted of tele-monitoring of implants or interval-based follow-up care. Results The indication for ICM implantation was made for 102 patients, 88 of whom underwent ICM implantation, with full documentation available for these 88 study patients. Within a median observation period of 21.5 months, AF occurred in 19 patients, with a median observation time to the event of 7 months. In all cases, AF detection was followed by immediate medical intervention. Comparing patients with and without AF revealed that the median age of the AF group exceeded by 10 years that of the other patients. Stroke recurrence was recorded in five patients, with a median observation time to the event of 9 months. Comparing patients with and without stroke recurrence revealed that the median age in the stroke recurrence group tended to be higher by 14 years. No statistically significant between-group differences were found with regard to integration into tele-monitoring, nor were there any differences identified between outpatient care at the UMR or in the outpatient sector. Conclusions This study confirmed the feasibility of using an interdisciplinary and intersectoral therapeutic approach for monitoring CS patients with implanted ICMs. Further randomized studies are warranted to confirm these encouraging data. An open discussion concerning optimal care forms and opportunities for introducing digitizing care pathways appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alper Öner
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany. .,Medizinische Klinik I im Zentrum für Innere Medizin (ZIM), Ernst-Heydemann-Str. 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
| | - Thomas Lips
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Uwe Walter
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Alexander Storch
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Hüseyin Ince
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Evren Caglayan
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Seyrani Yücel
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jasmin Ortak
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Rostock, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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Matsuzono K, Mashiko T, Ozawa T, Miura K, Suzuki M, Furuya K, Ozawa M, Anan Y, Shimazaki H, Koide R, Tanaka R, Kameda T, Fujimoto S. Characteristics of aged ischemic stroke patients indicative of cardioembolism. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2020; 51:522-529. [PMID: 32583305 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-020-02198-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of ischemic stroke has recently witnessed dramatic developments. However, there are limited data on ischemic stroke characteristics in aged patients. As part of the South Tochigi Acute Ischemic Stroke Registry, we prospectively enrolled 636 consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients (within 7 days after the onset) who were ≥ 60 years of age and who were admitted to two independent institutes from April 1, 2016 to February 28, 2019. We analyzed three groups divided by age: early-aged (60-69 years), middle-aged (70-79 years), and oldest-aged (≥ 80 years). From the 636 subjects, 194 were early-aged, 215 were middle-aged, and 227 were oldest-aged. There were significant differences in the ischemic stroke subtypes in each aging group (p < 0.01). The proportion of cardioembolism was 22.2% in early-aged, 27.4% in middle-aged, and 41.4% in the oldest-aged patients. The proportion of patients with a modified Rankin Scale of 0-2 at 1 year after onset decreased to 42.2% in middle-aged and 17.8% in oldest-aged with cardioembolic ischemic stroke. The proportion of patients receiving anticoagulation therapy before admission was 25.6% (36.7% of atrial fibrillation [AF]) in early-aged, 39.0% (52.3% of AF) in middle-aged, and 18.1% (21.0% of AF) in oldest-aged patients (p < 0.001). Our study reports characteristics of clinical ischemic stroke in an aging population. The assessment of cardiogenic embolism is important for an aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Matsuzono
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan.
| | - Takafumi Mashiko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Tadashi Ozawa
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Kumiko Miura
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Masayuki Suzuki
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Kohei Furuya
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Misato Ozawa
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Yuhei Anan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Haruo Shimazaki
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Reiji Koide
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Ryota Tanaka
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Kameda
- Department of Neurology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Fujimoto
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
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Siegler JE, Thon J, Cucchiara BL. Reader response: Carotid plaques and detection of atrial fibrillation in embolic stroke of undetermined source. Neurology 2020; 94:849-850. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000009428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Pecha S, Wilke I, Yildirim Y, Reichenspurner H, Aydin MA. Implantable loop recorder monitoring in patients with cryptogenic stroke - Detection and treatment of different clinically relevant arrhythmias. J Electrocardiol 2020; 60:102-106. [PMID: 32339814 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2020.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Implantable loop recorders (ILR) are recommended to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) in cases of cryptogenic stroke. However, real life data besides controlled trials are rare. Aim of the study was the detection of atrial fibrillation with a special focus on other arrhythmias according to criteria defined in earlier clinical trials. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 64 patients with cryptogenic stroke who underwent ILR implantation between 4/2014 and 1/2018. The primary endpoint was the detection of atrial fibrillation, significant bradycardia (<40 bpm) or tachycardia (>150 bpm). ILR interrogation was performed after implantation and 6, 12 and 24 months thereafter. RESULTS Mean patients age was 65.4 ± 12 years, 50% were male. Mean follow-up duration was 419.2 ± 309 days. One death occurred during follow-up. 23 patients (35.9%) experienced a symptomatic clinical neurological or cardiac event during follow-up. Overall rate of detected arrhythmias was 35% (23/64). The most frequent arrhythmia was atrial fibrillation which was observed in 16 patients (25%). 6 of 16 patients presenting with atrial fibrillation had no clinical symptoms. Bradycardias requiring subsequent pacemaker implantations were detected in 9.4%. A ventricular tachycardia was observed in one patient (1.6%). CONCLUSION In this group of patients with cryptogenic stroke the rate of arrhythmic events was high. Besides a high rate of atrial fibrillation (25%), an unexpectedly high rate of bradyarrhythmias (9.4%) occurred in our patient collective. Since many of those episodes were clinically asymptomatic, the ILR helps to detect and treat those clinically silent arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Pecha
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Iris Wilke
- Department of Cardiology, St. Adolf-Stift Hospital Reinbek, Germany
| | - Yalin Yildirim
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Reichenspurner
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, Germany
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Wintzer-Wehekind J, Alperi A, Houde C, Côté JM, del Val D, Côté M, Rodés-Cabau J. Cierre percutáneo del foramen oval permeable en pacientes mayores de 60 años con ictus criptogénico. Rev Esp Cardiol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.recesp.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Cryptogenic stroke and atrial fibrillation in a real-world population: the role of insertable cardiac monitors. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3230. [PMID: 32094376 PMCID: PMC7040015 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60180-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in cryptogenic stroke (CS) patients has been studied in carefully controlled clinical trials, but real-world data are limited. We investigated the incidence of AF in clinical practice among CS patients with an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) placed for AF detection. Patients with CS admitted to our Stroke Unit were included in the study; they received an ICM and were monitored for up to 3 years for AF detection. All detected AF episodes of at least 120 sec were considered. From March 2016 to March 2019, 58 patients (mean age 68.1 ± 9.3 years, 67% male) received an ICM to detect AF after a CS. No patients were lost to follow-up. AF was detected in 24 patients (41%, AF group mean age 70.8 ± 9.4 years, 62% male) after a mean time of 6 months from ICM (ranging from 2 days to 2 years) and 8 months after CS (ranging from 1 month to 2 years). In these AF patients, anticoagulant treatment was prescribed and nobody had a further stroke. In conclusion, AF episodes were detected via continuous monitoring with ICMs in 41% of implanted CS patients. AF in CS patients is asymptomatic and difficult to diagnose by strategies based on intermittent short-term recordings. Therefore, we suggest that ICMs should be part of daily practice in the evaluation of CS patients.
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Abstract
Despite advances in understanding the cause of ischemic stroke, cryptogenic stroke remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Approximately 15% to 40% of all ischemic strokes have no identifiable cause. CS is a diagnosis of exclusion after completing the standard stroke work-up. Further investigation needs to be tailored individually according to results of the clinical evaluation so appropriate secondary prevention strategies can be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary P Amatangelo
- Neurology, Stroke, Neurocritical Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 15 Francis Street, BB 335, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Passman R. Atrial fibrillation detection using implantable cardiac monitors: Are we being too revealing? Am Heart J 2020; 219:137-139. [PMID: 31862085 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rod Passman
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Chicago, IL.
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34
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Reiffel JA, Verma A, Kowey PR, Halperin JL, Gersh BJ, Elkind MSV, Ziegler PD, Kaplon RE, Sherfesee L, Wachter R. Rhythm monitoring strategies in patients at high risk for atrial fibrillation and stroke: A comparative analysis from the REVEAL AF study. Am Heart J 2020; 219:128-136. [PMID: 31862084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reducing atrial fibrillation (AF)-related stroke requires timely AF diagnosis, but the optimal monitoring strategy is unknown. OBJECTIVE We used insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) data from the REVEAL AF study to compare AF detection rates by various short-term continuous monitoring (STM) strategies. METHODS AND RESULTS Patients without known AF, but with CHADS2 scores ≥3 (or = 2 with ≥1 additional AF risk factor) received an ICM for AF detection. One-time STM strategies were assessed by computing AF incidence at 1, 2, 7, 14, and 30 days post-ICM insertion. Repeated STM strategies (quarterly 24-hour, 48-hour, 7-day, or monthly 24-hour monitoring) were modeled by randomly selecting day(s) within a 30-day window around each nominal evaluation date over a 1-year period (simulated 10,000 times). Endpoints included AF ≥6 minutes, AF ≥1 hour, and daily AF burden ≥1 and ≥ 5.5 hours. The impact of compliance on AF detection was evaluated using daily compliance rates of 85%, 75%, 65% and 55% during follow-up months 1-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 9-12, respectively. Based on data from 385 patients (71.5 ± 9.9 years; CHADS2 score 3.0 ± 1.0) the incidence of AF ≥6 minutes via ICM at 12 months was 27.1% (95% CI, 22.5-31.5%). This exceeded the range of estimated rates from all modeled one-time and repeated STM strategies (0.8% for 24-hour Holter monitoring to 10.6% for quarterly 7-day monitoring). Findings were similar for all AF endpoints. Modeled non-compliance reduced AF detection by 4.5% to 22.9%. CONCLUSIONS Most AF episodes detected via ICMs would go undetected via conventional STM strategies, thus preventing optimal prophylaxis for adverse consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Reiffel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY.
| | - Atul Verma
- Department of Cardiology, Southlake Regional Health Centre, 596 Davis Dr, Newmarket, ON, Canada.
| | - Peter R Kowey
- Department of Internal Medicine-Cardiology, Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, 100 Lancaster Ave, Wynnewood, PA.
| | - Jonathan L Halperin
- The Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai Medical Center, 1190 5th Ave, New York, NY.
| | - Bernard J Gersh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN.
| | - Mitchell S V Elkind
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, and Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 710 West 168(th) Street, #182, New York, NY.
| | - Paul D Ziegler
- Diagnostics, Cardiac Rhythm and Heart Failure, Medtronic, Inc., 8200 Coral Sea St NE, Mounds View, MN.
| | - Rachelle E Kaplon
- Diagnostics, Cardiac Rhythm and Heart Failure, Medtronic, Inc., 8200 Coral Sea St NE, Mounds View, MN.
| | - Lou Sherfesee
- Diagnostics, Cardiac Rhythm and Heart Failure, Medtronic, Inc., 8200 Coral Sea St NE, Mounds View, MN.
| | - Rolf Wachter
- Clinic and Policlinic for Cardiology, University Hospital Leipzig, Liebigstraße 20, Leipzig, Germany.
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Koo K, Inglis SC, Freedman B, Thijs V, Ferguson C. Implantable cardiac monitors compared with conventional methods for the detection of atrial high-rate episodes in individuals with embolic stroke of undetermined source. Hippokratia 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Koo
- University of Technology Sydney; Faculty of Health; Sydney Australia
| | - Sally C Inglis
- University of Technology Sydney; Faculty of Health; Sydney Australia
| | - Ben Freedman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney; Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre; Sydney Australia
| | - Vincent Thijs
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Sydney Australia
| | - Caleb Ferguson
- Western Sydney University & Western Sydney Local Health District; Western Sydney Nursing Research Centre; Sydney Australia
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Potential Utility of Neurosonology in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Detection in Patients with Cryptogenic Stroke. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8112002. [PMID: 31744102 PMCID: PMC6912531 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8112002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Occult paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is a common and potential treatable cause of cryptogenic stroke (CS). We sought to prospectively identify independent predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) detection in patients with CS and sinus rhythm on baseline electrocardiogram (ECG), without prior AF history. We had hypothesized that cardiac arrhythmia detection during neurosonology examinations (Carotid Duplex (CDU) and Transcranial Doppler (TCD)) may be associated with higher likelihood of AF detection. Methods: Consecutive CS patients were prospectively evaluated over a six-year period. Demographics, clinical and imaging characteristics of cerebral ischemia were documented. The presence of arrhythmia during spectral waveform analysis of CDU/TCD was recorded. Left atrial enlargement was documented during echocardiography using standard definitions. The outcome event of interest included PAF detection on outpatient 24-h Holter ECG recordings. Statistical analyses were performed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: A total of 373 patients with CS were evaluated (mean age 60 ± 11 years, 67% men, median NIHSS-score 4 points). The rate of PAF detection of any duration on Holter ECG recordings was 11% (95% CI 8%–14%). The following three variables were independently associated with the likelihood of AF detection on 24-h Holter-ECG recordings in both multivariate analyses adjusting for potential confounders: age (OR per 10-year increase: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.19–2.37; p = 0.003), moderate or severe left atrial enlargement (OR: 4.81; 95% CI: 1.77–13.03; p = 0.002) and arrhythmia detection during neurosonology evaluations (OR: 3.09; 95% CI: 1.47–6.48; p = 0.003). Conclusion: Our findings underline the potential utility of neurosonology in improving the detection rate of PAF in patients with CS.
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Maervoet J, Bossers N, Borge RP, Hilpert ST, van Engen A, Smala A. Use of insertable cardiac monitors for the detection of atrial fibrillation in patients with cryptogenic stroke in the United States is cost-effective. J Med Econ 2019; 22:1221-1234. [PMID: 31480905 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2019.1663355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and a major marker of ischemic stroke risk. Early detection is crucial and, once diagnosed, anticoagulation therapy can be initiated to reduce stroke risk. The aim of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of employing an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), BIOMONITOR, for the detection of AF compared to standard of care (SoC) ECG and Holter monitoring in patients with cryptogenic stroke, that is, stroke of unknown origin and where paroxysmal, silent AF is suspected. Materials and methods: A Markov model was developed which consisted of five main health states reflecting the potential lifetime evolution of the AF disease: post cryptogenic stroke (index event), subsequent mild, moderate and severe stroke, and death. Sub-states were included to track a patient's AF diagnostic status and the use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy. AF detection was assumed to result in a treatment switch from aspirin to anticoagulants, except among those with a history of major bleeding. Detection yield and accuracy, clinical actions and treatment effects were derived from the literature and validated by an expert clinician. All relevant costs from a US Medicare perspective were included. Results and conclusions: An ICM-based strategy was associated with a reduction of 37 secondary ischemic strokes per 1000 patients monitored compared with SoC. Total per-patient costs with an ICM were higher (US$90,052 vs. US$85,157) although stroke-related costs were reduced. The use of an ICM was associated with a base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of US$18,487 per life year gained compared with SoC and US$25,098 per quality-adjusted life year gained, below established willingness-to-pay thresholds. The conclusions were found to be robust over a range of input values. From a US Medicare perspective the use of a BIOMONITOR ICM represents a cost-effective diagnostic strategy for patients with cryptogenic stroke and suspected AF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - N Bossers
- Performation Healthcare , Bilthoven , the Netherlands
| | - R P Borge
- Abington Hospital - Jefferson Health , Abington , PA , USA
| | | | | | - A Smala
- BIOTRONIK SE & Co KG , Berlin , Germany
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Wintzer-Wehekind J, Alperi A, Houde C, Côté JM, Del Val D, Côté M, Rodés-Cabau J. Transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale in patients older than 60 years of age with cryptogenic embolism. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 73:219-224. [PMID: 31585849 DOI: 10.1016/j.rec.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Randomized trials have shown the efficacy of transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) in patients aged ≤ 60 years with cryptogenic embolism. We aimed to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of PFO closure in patients aged> 60 years. METHODS Of 475 consecutive patients with cryptogenic embolism who underwent PFO closure, 90 older patients aged> 60 years (mean, 66±5 years) were compared with 385 younger patients aged ≤ 60 years (mean, 44±10 years). RESULTS Older patients had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) (hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes; P <.01 for all vs younger patients). There were no differences in periprocedural complications between the 2 groups. During a median follow-up of 8 (4-12) years, there were a total of 17 deaths, all from noncardiovascular causes (7.8% and 2.6% in the older and younger patient groups, respectively; HR, 4.12; 95%CI, 1.56-10.89). Four patients had a recurrent stroke (2.2% and 0.5% in the older and younger patient groups, respectively; HR, 5.08; 95%CI, 0.71-36.2), and 12 patients had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) (3.3% and 2.3% in the older and younger patient groups, respectively; HR, 1.71; 95%CI, 0.46-6.39). There was a trend toward a higher rate of the composite of stroke/TIA in older patients (5.5% vs 2.6%; HR, 2.62; 95%CI, 0.89-7.75; P=.081), which did not persist after adjustment for CVRF (HR, 1.97; 95%CI, 0.59-6.56; P=.269). CONCLUSIONS In older patients with cryptogenic embolism, PFO closure was safe and associated with a low rate of ischemic events at long-term. However, older patients exhibited a tendency toward a higher incidence of recurrent stroke/TIA compared with younger patients, likely related to a higher burden of CVRF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberto Alperi
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Jean-Marc Côté
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Del Val
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mélanie Côté
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Josep Rodés-Cabau
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Quebec, Canada; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Quebec, Canada.
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Exploring the experiences of individuals with an insertable cardiac monitor: Making the decision for device insertion. Heart Lung 2019; 49:86-91. [PMID: 31399224 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the decision-making process for insertable cardiac monitors (ICM) in those with suspected arrhythmias. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe how individuals make a decision to insert an ICM. METHODS A qualitative descriptive design was used. Data were analyzed using content analysis and constant comparison. NVivo 10 was used for data grouping and patterns. RESULTS Participants (N = 12) ranged in age from 41to 95. Most (n = 7) had the device inserted because of syncope or atrial fibrillation (AF), and others (n = 5) for cryptogenic stroke. Three categories emerged: pre-decision, definitive decision, and deliberated decision. Event symptoms, including physical, cognitive and emotional, and trust emerged as factors in decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Those who perceived their experience as life-threatening, trusted the healthcare provider and assented to the ICM insertion. Conversely, those who perceived symptoms as episodic, used other strategies to resolve symptoms prior to making the decision for insertion.
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Clinical Impact of Oral Anticoagulation in Patients with Atrial High-rate Episodes. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:971-979. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Pristipino C, Sievert H, D'Ascenzo F, Mas JL, Meier B, Scacciatella P, Hildick-Smith D, Gaita F, Toni D, Kyrle P, Thomson J, Derumeaux G, Onorato E, Sibbing D, Germonpré P, Berti S, Chessa M, Bedogni F, Dudek D, Hornung M, Zamorano J. European position paper on the management of patients with patent foramen ovale. General approach and left circulation thromboembolism. EUROINTERVENTION 2019; 14:1389-1402. [PMID: 30141306 DOI: 10.4244/eij-d-18-00622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
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Verma N, Ziegler PD, Liu S, Passman RS. Incidence of atrial fibrillation among patients with an embolic stroke of undetermined source: Insights from insertable cardiac monitors. Int J Stroke 2018; 14:146-153. [DOI: 10.1177/1747493018798554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Prophylactic use of direct oral anticoagulants for recurrent stroke prevention in patients with embolic strokes of undetermined source is currently being investigated. It is uncertain whether the bleeding risks associated with prophylactic direct oral anticoagulants use will outweigh any stroke prevention benefit in embolic strokes of undetermined source patients who lack underlying atrial fibrillation. Methods We determined the proportion of cryptogenic stroke patients in the CRYSTAL atrial fibrillation trial who met inclusion criteria for the NAVIGATE embolic stroke of undetermined source and RE-SPECT embolic stroke of undetermined source trials and their atrial fibrillation incidence. Both embolic strokes of undetermined source trials impose requirements on age, modified Rankin Score, antiplatelet use, and type of infarction. Insertable cardiac monitors were used to determine the atrial fibrillation detection rates at 30 days and 3 years using Kaplan–Meier’s estimates. Results Among 441 patients enrolled in the CRYSTAL atrial fibrillation trial, 189 (42.9%) and 236 (53.5%) met the inclusion criteria of the NAVIGATE embolic stroke of undetermined source and RE-SPECT embolic stroke of undetermined source trials, respectively. Atrial fibrillation detection rates at 3 years among insertable cardiac monitors patients eligible for the NAVIGATE embolic stroke of undetermined source and RE-SPECT embolic stroke of undetermined source trials were 35.8% and 33.6% while detection rates at 30 days were 5.6% and 3.5%, respectively. Conclusion Only half of cryptogenic stroke patients in CRYSTAL atrial fibrillation met the inclusion criteria for the ongoing embolic strokes of undetermined source trials. Approximately, two-thirds of patients with embolic strokes of undetermined source do not have any atrial fibrillation despite continuous rhythm monitoring for up to three years. The benefits of prophylactic use of direct oral anticoagulants in the absence of atrial fibrillation is unknown and therefore embolic strokes of undetermined source patients could benefit from prolonged atrial fibrillation monitoring until more robust data are available. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration NCT00924638. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00924638 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant Verma
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Paul D Ziegler
- Medtronic Cardiac Rhythm Heart Failure, Mounds View, USA
| | - Shufeng Liu
- Medtronic Cardiac Rhythm Heart Failure, Mounds View, USA
| | - Rod S Passman
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
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Sanna T. Long-term monitoring to detect atrial fibrillation with the indwelling implantable cardiac monitors. Int J Stroke 2018; 13:893-904. [PMID: 30091680 DOI: 10.1177/1747493018790023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of detection tools are available and several detection strategies have been described to pursue the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation to prevent ischemic stroke. Monitoring tools include standard electrocardiography, snapshot single-lead recordings with professional or personal devices (e.g. smartphone-based), Holter monitor, external devices with long-term recording capabilities, and cardiac implantable electronic devices, including pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators and insertable cardiac monitors. Insertable cardiac monitors have shown high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of atrial fibrillation, allow up to three years of continuous monitoring, do not require cooperation of the patient, are well tolerated, have a short device-related time delay between detection of atrial fibrillation and notification to the physician, provide information on atrial fibrillation burden and are minimally invasive. On the other hand, insertable cardiac monitors require a considerable use of resources to process the recordings and have a significant initial cost. Studies conducted with insertable cardiac monitors on patients with prior stroke and on patients with risk factors for stroke but no prior cerebrovascular events or atrial fibrillation have consistently shown a measurable incidence of atrial fibrillation at follow-up. However, the effectiveness of oral anticoagulations in reducing the incidence of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation lasting less than 24 h, though reasonable, is currently unproven. The future of atrial fibrillation detection tools and atrial fibrillation detection strategies will be influenced by ongoing studies exploring whether oral anticoagulations reduce the incidence of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation burden lower than 24 h.
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Tian D, Yang Q, Dong Q, Li N, Yan B, Fan D. Trends in stroke subtypes and vascular risk factors in a stroke center in China over 10 years. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5037. [PMID: 29567985 PMCID: PMC5864718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23356-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid economic development in China has caused marked changes in people’s lifestyles and medical technology. Exploration of stroke subtype trends is necessary to provide physicians with vital insight for early diagnosis and treatment. We included stroke patients admitted from 2006 to 2015. Trends in stroke subtypes and vascular risk factors were investigated. There were 5521 patients, including 4534 (82.1%) ischemic stroke (IS), 813 (14.7%) intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and 174 (3.2%) subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients. The proportion of IS was increasing and proportions of ICH and SAH were decreasing (P < 0.001). Onset age and hypertension remained stable in stroke subtypes. In IS patients, large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) strokes increased from 17.0% to 30.8% in the first 7 years and ultimately decreased to 24.1%. Small vessel disease (SVD) strokes increased from 15.5% to 39.6%, undetermined etiology (UE) strokes decreased from 52.7% to 26.0%, others remained stable. The levels of low-density lipoprotein declined significantly, and an increased number of patients underwent intracranial artery examinations (P < 0.001). In conclusion, proportions of stroke subtypes changed significantly. Anti-hypertension therapy needs to be reinforced to control ICH, SAH and SVD ischemic stroke incidences. The etiologic detection of IS increased and lipid-lowing therapy was effective, cardioembolism detections should be reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Tian
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Quan Dong
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Li
- Research Center of Clinical Epidemiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bernard Yan
- Department of Medicine and Neurology, Melbourne Brain Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Dongsheng Fan
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health & Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Sanna T, Ziegler PD, Crea F. Detection and management of atrial fibrillation after cryptogenic stroke or embolic stroke of undetermined source. Clin Cardiol 2018; 41:426-432. [PMID: 29569253 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptogenic stroke (CS) and embolic stroke of unknown source (ESUS) represent a major challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly found after CS or ESUS. Independent of the mechanism of the index CS or ESUS, detection of AF in these patients offers the opportunity to reduce the risk of stroke recurrence by prescribing an anticoagulant instead of aspirin. The detection of AF may be pursued with different monitoring strategies. Comparison of monitoring strategies should take into account that AF detection rates reported in published studies, and then pooled in meta-analyses, are not only a function of the monitoring strategy itself, but also depend on patient-related, device-related, and study design-related factors. Once AF is found, the decision to anticoagulate a patient should be made on the basis of AF burden and the baseline risk of the patient. Empirical anticoagulation in patients with ESUS and no evidence of AF is an intriguing but still-unproven strategy and therefore should not be adopted outside of randomized clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Sanna
- Institute of Cardiology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Paul D Ziegler
- Diagnostics Research, Medtronic Inc., Mounds View, Minnesota
| | - Filippo Crea
- Institute of Cardiology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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46
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Tian DY, Fan DS. Risk Factors, Regional Disparity and Trends of Ischemic Stroke Etiologic Subtypes. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 131:127-129. [PMID: 29336358 PMCID: PMC5776840 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.222332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Yang Tian
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Fan
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
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The complexity of atrial fibrillation newly diagnosed after ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack: advances and uncertainties. Curr Opin Neurol 2018; 30:28-37. [PMID: 27984303 PMCID: PMC5321114 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review Atrial fibrillation is being increasingly diagnosed after ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA). Patient characteristics, frequency and duration of paroxysms, and the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke associated with atrial fibrillation detected after stroke and TIA (AFDAS) may differ from atrial fibrillation already known before stroke occurrence. We aim to summarize major recent advances in the field, in the context of prior evidence, and to identify areas of uncertainty to be addressed in future research. Recent findings Half of all atrial fibrillations in ischemic stroke and TIA patients are AFDAS, and most of them are asymptomatic. Over 50% of AFDAS paroxysms last less than 30 s. The rapid initiation of cardiac monitoring and its duration are crucial for its timely and effective detection. AFDAS comprises a heterogeneous mix of atrial fibrillation, possibly including cardiogenic and neurogenic types, and a mix of both. Over 25 single markers and at least 10 scores have been proposed as predictors of AFDAS. However, there are considerable inconsistencies across studies. The role of AFDAS burden and its associated risk of stroke recurrence have not yet been investigated. Summary AFDAS may differ from atrial fibrillation known before stroke in several clinical dimensions, which are important for optimal patient care strategies. Many questions remain unanswered. Neurogenic and cardiogenic AFDAS need to be characterized, as it may be possible to avoid some neurogenic cases by initiating timely preventive treatments. AFDAS burden may differ in ischemic stroke and TIA patients, with distinctive diagnostic and treatment implications. The prognosis of AFDAS and its risk of recurrent stroke are still unknown; therefore, it is uncertain whether AFDAS patients should be treated with oral anticoagulants.
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Kaplan RM, Ziegler PD, Koehler J, Glotzer TV, Passman RS. Atrial fibrillation variability on long-term monitoring of implantable cardiac rhythm management devices. Clin Cardiol 2017; 40:1044-1048. [PMID: 28800149 PMCID: PMC6490419 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) burden and duration are predictors of thromboembolic events. The random nature of these measures may affect clinical decision making. The objective of this study was to determine temporal changes in AF burden as detected by continuous monitoring. HYPOTHESIS AF burden changes over time when detected by continuous monitoring. METHODS A post hoc analysis of patients enrolled in the TRENDS (A Prospective Study of the Clinical Significance of Atrial Arrhythmias Detected by Implanted Device Diagnostics) study with ≥1 stroke risk factor(s) who were implanted with a dual-chamber cardiac rhythm management device (CRMD) and had AF burden data available for ≥2 years was performed. AF burden was defined as no AF, low AF (<5.5 hours on any given day), or high AF burden (≥5.5 hours in a day), and was first assessed over the initial 30 days following enrollment and then reassessed at 6-month intervals for 2 years. RESULTS Among 394 patients included, the average age was 70.2 ± 10.9 years, 71% were male, and mean CHA2 DS2- VASc (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes mellitus, prior stroke or TIA, vascular disease, age 65-74 years, sex category) score was 3.7 ± 1.6. In the 30-day baseline period, 75.1% of patients had no AF, 11.2% had low AF, and 13.7% had high AF. Over the subsequent 2 years, 40.0% of patients initially classified as no AF or low AF experienced periods with high AF, whereas 59.3% of patients initially classified as high AF experienced ≥6 consecutive months with no AF or low AF. Advanced age was the sole predictor of AF progression. CONCLUSIONS Significant temporal variability in AF burden exists when measured continuously with an implantable CRMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M. Kaplan
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinois
| | - Paul D. Ziegler
- Cardiac Rhythm Disease Management, Medtronic, Inc.MinneapolisMinnesota
| | - Jodi Koehler
- Cardiac Rhythm Disease Management, Medtronic, Inc.MinneapolisMinnesota
| | - Taya V. Glotzer
- Department of Cardiology, Hackensack University Medical CenterHackensackNew Jersey
| | - Rod S. Passman
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinois
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Thijs V. Atrial Fibrillation Detection: Fishing for An Irregular Heartbeat Before and After Stroke. Stroke 2017; 48:2671-2677. [PMID: 28916671 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.117.017083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Thijs
- From the Stroke Division, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, and Department of Neurology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
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50
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Bernstein RA, Kamel H, Granger CB, Kowal RC, Ziegler PD, Schwamm LH. Stroke of Known Cause and Underlying Atrial Fibrillation (STROKE-AF) randomized trial: Design and rationale. Am Heart J 2017; 190:19-24. [PMID: 28760209 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 20% of ischemic strokes are associated with clinically apparent atrial fibrillation (AF). Regardless of stroke etiology, detection of AF in patients with ischemic strokes often changes antithrombotic treatment from anti-platelet to oral anticoagulation therapy. The role and the optimum duration of cardiac monitoring to detect AF in patients with strokes presumed due to large vessel atherosclerosis or small vessel disease is unknown. This manuscript describes the design and rationale of the STROKE-AF trial. STUDY DESIGN STROKE-AF is a randomized, controlled, open-label, post-market clinical trial. Detection of AF will be evaluated using continuous arrhythmia monitoring with an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) compared with standard of care follow-up in patients with stroke (within the prior 10 days) that is presumed due to large vessel cervical or intracranial atherosclerosis, or to small vessel disease. Approximately 500 patients will be enrolled at approximately 40 centers in the United States. Patients will be randomized 1:1 to arrhythmia monitoring with an ICM (continuous monitoring arm) or standard of care follow-up (control arm). Subjects will be followed for ≥12 months and up to 3 years. OUTCOMES The primary objective is to compare the incidence rate of detected AF through 12 months of follow-up between the two arms. CONCLUSION This trial will provide information on the value of ICMs to detect subclinical AF in patients with stroke presumed due to large vessel atherosclerosis or small vessel disease, which will have implications for guiding treatment with oral anticoagulation for secondary stroke prevention.
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