Cardioversion from Atrial Fibrillation without Prolonged Anticoagulation with Use of Transesophageal Echocardiography to Exclude the Presence of Atrial Thrombi

摘要: Background Because atrial thrombi are poorly detected by conventional noninvasive techniques such as transthoracic echocardiography, patients with prolonged fibrillation usually receive several weeks of oral anticoagulation therapy before cardioversion is attempted. We wondered whether transesophageal an accurate method detecting thrombi, would allow early to be performed safely if no were identified. Methods A total 669 consecutive admitted the diagnosis screened. Patients excluded they receiving long-term anticoagulation, duration was two days or less, not candidates for cardioversion, echocardiography contraindicated. Of 119 qualifying patients, 94 agreed participate; average 4.5 weeks. Participating underwent and echocardio...