Stroke prevention device? No answer yet

Companies' research announcements should almost always be taken with a grain of salt, so don't hold your breath for exciting news about this next week.

But atrial fibrillation is a common problem and known stroke-causing ailment. So look for more news and perhaps answers on this in the months ahead.

AGA Medical enrolls first patient in stroke-prevention trial

The trial is intended to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the plug in preventing blood clots in the heart that can lead to strokes. The trial will be conducted with patients suffering from atrial fibrillation, a condition in which the heart quivers and doesn’t pump blood properly. That can cause clots that travel to the brain and result in strokes, according to a statement from the company.