BACKGROUND

Hemostasis in the left atrial (LA) appendage (LAA) is an important cause in the formation of thrombi. Determination of the LAA flow velocity (LAAV) could be a quantitative parameter for estimating thromboembolic risk. The objective of this study was to: (1) determine the relationship between LAAV and qualitative parameters with elevated thromboembolic risk (thrombus/spontaneous echocontrast [SEC]); and (2) define factors that influence LAAV.

METHODS

In all, 500 patients with stroke were examined consecutively by transesophageal echocardiography. In addition to measurement of the LAAV, the atrial appendage was examined for the presence of thrombi or SEC.

RESULTS

LAAV differed significantly among patients with sinus rhythm (71 +/- 16 cm/s), paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and in sinus rhythm during transesophageal echocardiography (46 +/- 13 cm/s), paroxysmal AF and AF during transesophageal echocardiography (32 +/- 12 cm/s), and chronic AF (27 +/- 9 cm/s, P < .001). Independent of the rhythm, the risk of thrombus/SEC increased significantly at an LAAV less than 55 cm/s. At an LAAV 55 cm/s or more there is only a minimal risk of thrombus/SEC (negative predictive value 100% and 99%, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that LAAV is the strongest predictor for the occurrence of thrombus/SEC (P < .0001). Further multivariate analysis showed that left ventricular ejection fraction, LA size, (paroxysmal) AF, age, and sex are independent parameters influencing LAAV.

CONCLUSION

Independent of the basic rhythm, there is a close relationship between LAAV and qualitative parameters of elevated thromboembolic risk. LAAV could, therefore, be a quantitative surrogate parameter for risk stratification. It is influenced by both cardiac and extracardiac factors.