Europace : European pacing, arrhythmias, and cardiac electrophysiology : journal of the working groups on cardiac pacing, arrhythmias, and cardiac cellular electrophysiology of the European Society of Cardiology
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The purpose of this European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) survey was to assess clinical practice in relation to stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly into the use of novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for stroke prevention, among members of the EHRA electrophysiology (EP) research network. In this EP Wire survey, we have provided some insights into current practice in Europe for the use of NOACs for stroke prevention in AF. There were clear practice differences evident, and also the need for greater adherence to the guidelines, especially since guideline adherent management results in better outcomes in AF.
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Review Meta Analysis
Safety and efficacy of interrupted dabigatran for peri-procedural anticoagulation in catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
To examine the safety (defined as bleeding risk) and efficacy (defined as prevention of thromboembolic events) of interrupted dabigatran for peri-procedural anticoagulation in catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) in comparison with warfarin. ⋯ Meta-analysis of currently available studies showed no significant difference in bleeding and thromboembolism between interrupted dabigatran and warfarin therapy in CA of AF. Dabigatran appears to be safe and effective for peri-procedural anticoagulation in CA of AF.
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Observational Study
True complete left bundle branch block morphology strongly predicts good response to cardiac resynchronization therapy.
To determine whether patients with congestive heart failure and true left bundle branch block (LBBB) morphology have better response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) than do patients without true LBBB. ⋯ In patients with conventional wider LBBB morphology, the presence of mid-QRS notching or slurring is a strong predictor of better response to CRT.
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To determine the long-term costs of extending device longevity in four patient populations requiring a single-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or requiring cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillation (CRT-D) device over a 15-year time window. ⋯ Extending device longevity has an important effect on the long-term cost of device therapy, both for ICD and CRT-D. This has important implications for device choice.