The influence of randomized trials on the use of anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation

摘要

Introduction: anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs have been shown in randomized trials to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We therefore investigated their use I patients known to be in AF before a stroke, transient ischaemic attack (either cerebral or ocular) or retinal artery occlusion to assess the influence of trials on clinical practice. Methods: inpatients and outpatients with acute stroke, transient ischaemic attack or retinal artery occlusion were Prospectively identified by a stroke physician from 1990 to 1997.