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Acta Neurológica Colombiana
Print version ISSN 0120-8748On-line version ISSN 2422-4022
Abstract
PUGLIESE, Isabella et al. Atrial appendage closure in atrial fibrillation and high risk of bleeding: case series. Acta Neurol Colomb. [online]. 2022, vol.38, n.4, pp.191-200. Epub Feb 01, 2023. ISSN 0120-8748. https://doi.org/10.22379/24224022427.
INTRODUCTION:
Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of a cerebrovascular attack of cardioembolic source by 5 times. Anticoagulation is indicated for primary and secondary prevention of cerebral embolism. In patients at high risk of non-modifiable bleeding, closure of the left atrial appendage has been proposed as an alternative to anticoagulation.
METHODS:
Retrospective case series of patients included in the ReACTIVE registry between 2019 and 2020 with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 4, HAS-BLED ≥ 3, and long-term anticoagulant therapy contraindication. Demographic variables, risk factors, and clinical outcomes were included using the modified Rankin scale, and clinical follow-up was done three months after the procedure.
RESULTS:
6 patients were included, 50 % women, median age 80.8 ± 4.8 years. 83.3 % history of major bleeding under anticoagulant treatment. At the 90-day follow-up, no patient had a bleeding or cerebrovascular attack, one patient died from non-cardiovascular causes, and 83.3 % of the patients had a favorable modified Rankin (0-2).
CONCLUSIONS:
Atrial appendix closure is a therapeutic option in patients with atrial fibrillation and a contraindication for anticoagulation due to a high risk of bleeding. Our series obtained results like those published at the national level despite including older patients. The formation of interdisciplinary heart and brain teams is helpful in the selection of patients for this therapy.
Keywords : Atrial Appendage, Embolic Stroke, Atrial Fibrillation, Anticoagulants; Atrial fibrillation (MeSH).