Antithrombotic management of atrial fibrillation for stroke prevention in older people

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac condition in the elderly popul ation. The primary concern in individuals with AF is the risk of stroke. Th e management of AF for stroke prevention requires an understanding of the r elative risks and benefits of antithrombotic therapy. Numerous randomized c linical trials have improved tremendously our understanding of the relative merits of anticoagulation and aspirin, and indicate that anticoagulation i s the appropriate treatment for the majority of individuals with AF. In pat ients who have contraindications to anticoagulation, aspirin is recommended .