Key result
Anticoagulation is recommended for elderly AF patients at fall risk as stroke reduction outweighs intracranial bleeding.
Why the study?
The benefit-risk balance of anticoagulation in elderly patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of falls is unclear.
Does anticoagulation provide a net clinical benefit (stroke prevention vs intracranial hemorrhage) in elderly patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation at high risk of falls?
Does anticoagulation provide a net clinical benefit (stroke prevention vs intracranial hemorrhage) in elderly patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation at high risk of falls?
This review discusses the risk-benefit ratio of anticoagulation for stroke prevention versus the risk of intracranial hemorrhage in elderly patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of falls.
Supports anticoagulation consideration in fall-prone elderly AF; leaves open prospective trials to confirm net benefit.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a relatively common clinical entity with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in the elderly. Stroke is one of the most significant complications of AF, which can be prevented with the use of anticoagulation. Elder population are at an increased risk of falls and the use of anticoagulation in this group can lead to intracranial hemorrhage. Therefore, it is unclear whether patients at high risk of falls should be anticoagulated. This review article discusses the epidemiology of AF and falls in the elder population, and whether the benefit of anticoagulation outweighs the risks in this group.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Shanah et al. (2020) conducted a review in Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation. Anticoagulants vs. No anticoagulation or aspirin was evaluated. Anticoagulation is recommended in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation who are at risk of falls, as the benefit of stroke risk reduction outweighs the risks of intracranial bleeding.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: