Stroke Prevention & Atrial Fibrillation

Patients who have atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for stroke. Northwestern Memorial offers a range of treatment options to help prevent stroke in our patients.

Risk Factors for Stroke

The chances of having a stroke are greater in patients with atrial fibrillation who have additional risk factors. These can include:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Diabetes
• Previous stroke
• Congestive heart failure
• Advanced age

During cardiac surgery, a blood clot is removed from the atria to reduce the risk of stroke. Please note: This video may be graphic in nature. There is no audio for this video.

Medical and Surgical Options

We offer a wide range of treatments that reduce the risk of stroke. These include medical management using oral blood thinners and other recently approved drugs. Surgical treatments such as occlusion (and sometimes removal) of the left atrial appendage are also an option for some patients.

Contact Us Today

For more information regarding atrial fibrillation, please call the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at 312-694-AFIB (2342) and ask to speak with one of our dedicated atrial fibrillation nurses. Jane Kruse and Mary Navarrete can provide information, answer questions and assist you with treatment options that best fit your needs. You can also request a first-time appointment online.

Clinical Trials and Quality Ratings

For more information regarding clinical trials related to atrial fibrillation, please visit the Clinical Trials Unit of Northwestern, send an email or call 312-926-4000.

Our quality ratings provide detailed information about data we have collected about our healthcare performance. View our quality ratings related to atrial fibrillation.