Hoyt et al identified risk factors for complications following atrial fibrillation. These can help to identify a patient who may benefit from alternative therapy or referral to an expert. The authors are from the Johns Hopkins University.
Risk factors for complications:
(1) female gender
(2) CHADS2 score >= 2 (for age >= 75 years, CHF, diabetes, history stroke, hypertension)
(3) low institutional or operator experience
Additional factors to consider:
(1) comorbidity not measured by CHADS2
(2) use of the latest techniques
The authors demonstrated a decrease in complications over time, but there were several changes in devices used and procedures performed.
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