Atrial Fibrillation: Anticoagulation

Question 1

What does CHA₂DS₂-VASc stand for?

Answer 1

Question 2

How do you choose anticoagulation using the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score?

Answer 2

0 = is no treatment

If they score 1

• Females - no treatment
• Males - consider anticoagulation

2 or more = Offer anticoagulation.

Question 3

What drugs do we now suggest for anticoagulation?

Answer 3

1. Warfarin
2. NOACs (Non-inferior but not as good as warfarin. Higher risk of GI bleeds)
3. We no longer use aspirin for anticoagulation in AF.

Question 4

In what situations can NOACs be used for AF?

Answer 4

• Stroke/TIA
• Diabetes
• Heart failure
• HTN
• OVer 75 years of age.

Question 5

Name 3 NOACs used for AF?

Answer 5

1. Dabigatran
2. Rivaroxaban
3. Apixaban.

Question 6

What can be offered if drug treatment fails or it is contraindicated?

Answer 6

Left atrial appendage occlusion.