Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: Beyond anti-clotting drugs
More than five million Americans have atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder commonly known as afib. During a bout of afib, the heart’s upper chambers (atria) suddenly start to quiver ineffectually. When that happens, blood tends to pool — and possibly form clots — in a small pouch that protrudes from the top of the left atrium. This ear-shaped sac is called the left atrial appendage (LAA).
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About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
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