Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 20, 2026
28:13
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
34.4K
Left atrial appendage exclusion for atrial fibrillation
Faisal F Syed1, Christopher V DeSimone1, Paul A Friedman1
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Cardiology Clinics
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure offers stroke prevention for atrial fibrillation patients unable to use anticoagulants. This review covers surgical and device-based methods, stroke risks, and procedural considerations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Stroke Prevention
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases stroke risk.
- Anticoagulant therapy is contraindicated in some AF patients.
- Left atrial appendage (LAA) is a primary source of thrombi in AF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review surgical and percutaneous LAA closure techniques.
- To discuss stroke mechanisms in AF.
- To evaluate LAA structure and function for stroke prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of published studies on LAA closure.
- Analysis of stroke mechanisms in AF.
- Examination of LAA anatomy and physiology.
Main Results:
- Percutaneous LAA closure is an emerging stroke prevention strategy.
- Various devices and surgical methods exist with distinct pros and cons.
- Understanding LAA characteristics is crucial for procedural success.
Conclusions:
- LAA closure is a viable alternative for stroke prevention in specific AF populations.
- Procedural approaches and clinical management require careful consideration.
- Further research may refine techniques and patient selection.
