Atrial fibrillation in embolic stroke of undetermined source: role of advanced imaging of left atrial function.

Aims: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is detected in over 30% of patients following an embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) when monitored with an implantable loop recorder (ILR). Identifying AF in ESUS survivors has significant therapeutic implications, and AF risk is essential to guide screening with long-term monitoring. The present study aimed to establish the role of left atrial (LA) function in subsequent AF identification and develop a risk model for AF in ESUS.

Electrocardiographic Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common pathological arrhythmia, and its complications lead to significant morbidity and mortality. However, patients with AF can often go undetected, especially if they are asymptomatic or have a low burden of paroxysms. Identification of those at high risk of AF development may help refine screening and management strategies.

The predictive value of abnormal P-wave axis for the detection of incident atrial fibrillation: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

Introduction: There is growing interest in the prediction of incident atrial fibrillation (AF). The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) has been a particularly rich target for possible prediction strategies.

Purpose: The P-wave axis is an ECG parameter that reflects the dominant vector of atrial depolarisation and is usually 0° -75°.

Benefits of support groups for patients living with implantable cardioverter defibrillators: a mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) experience anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life (QoL).

Objectives: This mixed-methods systematic review evaluates whether ICD support groups have a beneficial effect on mental well-being.

Methods: Literature searches were carried out in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science.

Managing anticoagulation in patients receiving implantable cardiac devices.

A substantial proportion of patients who undergo cardiac device implantation receive oral anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolism or antiplatelets to prevent thrombotic events. Anticoagulation and antiplatelets increase the risk of hemorrhagic complications, while discontinuation may increase thromboembolic risk and thrombotic events. With the introduction of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant agents and the newer antiplatelet agents such as prasugrel or ticagrelor, the perioperative management of patients has become more challenging.