Characteristics, Thrombus Resolution, and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation and Atrial Thrombus

Overview

Journal Clin Appl Thromb Hemost

Publisher Sage Publications

Specialty Cardiology & Vascular Diseases

Date 2023 Apr 20

PMID 37079758

Authors

Shu Yang

Yanjuan Zhang

Ning Chen

Jiaojiao Shi

Weizhu Ju

Hongwu Chen

Gang Yang

Zidun Wang

Hailei Liu

Xiaohong Jiang

Chang Cui

Minglong Chen

Mingfang Li

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

To assess the prevalence and management of atrial thrombus in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and identify the risk factors of the nonresolution of atrial thrombus. This single-center retrospective observational study consecutively enrolled patients with NVAF and atrial thrombus detected using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) or cardiac computed tomography angiography (CTA) from January 2012 to December 2020. Patients with prior left atrial appendage (LAA) intervention were excluded. The primary endpoint was the presence of atrial thrombus, while the secondary endpoint was the complete resolution of atrial thrombus. The prevalence of atrial thrombus in patients with NVAF was 1.4%. Ninety patients with atrial thrombus (mean age 62.8 ± 11.9 years and 61.1% men) were finally analyzed. Atrial thrombus was in the LAA in 82 (91.1%) patients. During follow up, 60% of the patients showed complete resolution of atrial thrombus. Congestive heart failure (odds ratio [OR]: 8.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.67-47.80) and a history of ischemic stroke (OR: 8.28; 95% CI: 1.48-46.42) were independently associated with the risk of the nonresolution of atrial thrombus. The presence of atrial thrombus in patients with NVAF who received anticoagulation therapy is non-negligible. Even in anticoagulated patients, TEE or cardiac CTA might still be needed. Congestive heart failure and a history of ischemic stroke are risk factors of the nonresolution of atrial thrombus.

Citing Articles

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