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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Left atrial appendage aneurysm-a rare anomaly with an atypical presentation
Dena Wilson1, Nishant Kalra, Eric A Brody
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
Left atrial appendage aneurysm (LAAA) is a rare congenital heart condition. This case highlights a large LAAA diagnosed via echocardiography and cardiac MRI in a young female, successfully treated with aneurysmectomy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Cardiac Surgery
Background:
- Left atrial appendage aneurysm (LAAA) is a rare congenital condition.
- It often leads to atrial tachyarrhythmias or thromboembolism.
- Understanding LAAA presentation and management is crucial.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old Native American female presented with cough.
- Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a large cyst-like structure near the left ventricle.
- Cardiac MRI confirmed the diagnosis of LAAA.
Findings:
- The patient was in sinus rhythm despite the large LAAA.
- Diagnostic imaging successfully identified the aneurysm.
- Surgical intervention was performed.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of LAAA presentation in young adults.
- Successful surgical management (aneurysmectomy) is feasible.
- Further research into LAAA etiology and long-term outcomes is warranted.
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Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
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Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

