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. 1974 Apr;37(4):378–383. doi: 10.1136/jnnp.37.4.378

Cerebral embolism and mitral stenosis: survival with and without anticoagulants

G F Adams 1,2, J D Merrett 1,2, W M Hutchinson 1,2, A M Pollock 1,2
PMCID: PMC494667  PMID: 4838909

Abstract

Eighty-four patients with mitral stenosis and cerebral embolism have been followed up for 20 years. Half of the series (those treated in the early years) had no anticoagulant treatment and half were given long-term warfarin therapy. Mortality rate and causes of death have been reviewed, and comparison of survival times of treated and untreated groups by life-table analysis bears out the immediate need for anticoagulants when a diagnosis of systemic embolism is established. It is wise to continue the treatment for six months but it may be reasonable to discontinue it after one year with patients who can be assured of regular review.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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