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Updated: Oct 13, 2026
The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Exclusion of the left atrial appendage with the TigerPaw II system: a word of caution
Guillermo Ventosa-Fernandez1, Eduard Quintana1, Manuel Castellá1
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Insights
Excluding the left atrial appendage (LAA) can prevent strokes in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Our study found a high rate of malfunction with the TigerPaw II LAA closure device, suggesting a need for design improvements.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a leading cause of stroke due to thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage (LAA).
- LAA exclusion is a key strategy to prevent AF-related strokes.
- Various surgical devices exist for LAA exclusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical experience with the TigerPaw II system for LAA exclusion.
- To identify potential issues and device malfunctions associated with the TigerPaw II system.
Main Methods:
- Surgical implantation of the TigerPaw II system for LAA exclusion.
- Post-procedural assessment of device performance and patient outcomes.
- Analysis of device-related complications and malfunctions.
Main Results:
- The study observed a high prevalence of device malfunction with the TigerPaw II system.
- Specific issues leading to malfunction were identified, impacting device efficacy.
- The findings highlight potential safety and performance concerns.
Conclusions:
- The TigerPaw II system demonstrated a significant rate of malfunction in LAA exclusion.
- Improvements in device design are necessary to enhance safety and reliability for surgical LAA closure.
- Further technological advancements are crucial for effective AF-related stroke prevention strategies.
Abstract:
Exclusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) may significantly reduce the incidence of stroke associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), since this is the main thrombus source. LAA closure is becoming a therapeutic target for preventing AF-related stroke, attracting much interest in recent years. Different devices are available to provide LAA exclusion during cardiac surgery. We describe herein our experience with the recently introduced TigerPaw II system for LAA exclusion, and report a high prevalence of device malfunction. Design improvements may address these issues and increase safety for new technological devices designed for surgical LAA closure.
