Association between lower extremity venous insufficiency and duration of atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Objective Physiologic studies have shown that atrium has an active role in venous blood return from lower extremity. In this context we investigated the association between AF and chronic venous disease (CVD). Methods In this observational study we included 392 AF patients which were divided into two groups (chronic AF, 218 (56%)) and non-chronic. AF, 174 (44%)). These two groups were compared in terms of CVD after matching conventional risk factors for CVD. Results CEAP classification was different between chronic and non-chronic patients (C0–C2: 72% vs 47%; C3–C6: 28% vs 53% <0.001). Chronic AF patients had also higher rate of venous reflux on Doppler ultrasound (38% vs 16% P < 0.05). There was a correlation between AF duration, right atrial volume index and CEAP classification respectively (rho:0.314 p < 0.001), (rho:0.258, p < 0.001). Conclusion Prevalence of CVD is higher in patients with chronic AF. In addition, atrial volume is directly correlated with CVD.