Fall risk and anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation in the elderly: A delicate balance.

Hagerty, Tracy; Rich, Michael W · Cleve Clin J Med · 2017

Where this comes from

Abstract

Guidelines for managing atrial fibrillation recommend systemic anticoagulation for almost all patients age 65 and older, but in practice up to 50% of older patients do not receive maintenance anticoagulation therapy. The most common reason physicians cite for withholding anticoagulation in older patients with atrial fibrillation is a perception of a high risk of falling and associated bleeding, especially intracranial hemorrhage.

Medical subject headings