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Published on: July 18, 2014
Percutaneous left atrial appendage transcatheter occlusion to prevent stroke in high-risk patients with atrial
Horst Sievert1, Michael D Lesh, Thomas Trepels
1Cardiovascular Center Bethanien, Frankfurt, Germany. horst.sievert@ dgn.de
Circulation
|May 9, 2002
Summary
Transcatheter closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) using the PLAATO system is a feasible and safe procedure for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) at high stroke risk who cannot tolerate warfarin.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increases stroke risk due to thromboembolism.
- Most AF-related thrombi originate in the left atrial appendage (LAA).
- LAA obliteration is a potential strategy to prevent embolic events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a novel device for percutaneous left atrial appendage transcatheter occlusion (PLAATO).
Main Methods:
- The PLAATO system, a nitinol cage with an ePTFE membrane, was implanted in 15 high-risk AF patients.
- Procedures were assessed using angiography and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).
Main Results:
- Successful LAA occlusion was achieved in all 15 patients (100%).
- The device was well-seated with no perforation, embolization, or structural interference.
- One patient experienced hemopericardium during access, successfully managed with a second procedure.
- One-month follow-up showed stable implant position and no thrombus formation.
Conclusions:
- Transcatheter LAA closure is feasible in humans.
- This novel implant technology offers an alternative for AF patients unsuitable for anticoagulation.
- Further trials are necessary to confirm long-term safety and stroke reduction efficacy.
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