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Updated: Mar 2, 2026
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Combined Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation and Watchman® Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Procedures: A Single
Daniel T Walker1, Julie A Humphries2, Karen P Phillips2
1St Jude Medical, 17 Orion Rd, Lane Cove, NSW, Australia 2066.
Insights
This study found that combining catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) with left atrial appendage (LAA) device closure is feasible and safe. The Watchman device effectively occluded the LAA in patients undergoing AF ablation procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) patients may benefit from combined left atrial catheter ablation and left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion.
- This case series reports on the feasibility and outcomes of these combined procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and safety of concomitant left atrial catheter ablation and LAA device occlusion.
- To assess the outcomes of combined AF ablation and Watchman device implantation.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-six patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) followed by Watchman device implantation.
- Procedures were assessed for complications and case time.
- Transoesophageal echocardiograms (TOE) were used for pre-procedural and follow-up assessments.
Main Results:
- All procedures were uncomplicated with a mean duration of 233 ± 38 minutes.
- A minor reduction in LAA orifice dimension was observed post-PVI in some patients.
- Transient peri-device leaks were noted in 5 patients, with 4 resolving by 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Combined catheter ablation for AF and Watchman LAA device implantation is feasible and safe.
- Satisfactory LAA occlusion is maintained during follow-up after combined procedures.
Abstract:
Background Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) may be interested in undergoing concomitant interventions of left atrial catheter ablation and device occlusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA). We report on the feasibility and outcome of combined procedures in a single centre case series. Methods Twenty-six patients underwent either first time or redo pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) procedures followed by successful implant of a Watchman® device. Results All procedures were uncomplicated with a mean case time of 233 ± 38 minutes. Maximal LAA orifice dimension was smaller in 3 of 26 patients post PVI (range 1mm) than on the pre-procedural transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE). A new peri-device leak of maximum 3mm was noted in 5 of 26 patients at 6 week follow-up TOE, but resolved in 4 by the 6 month follow-up. Conclusion Combined procedures for catheter ablation for AF and Watchman® LAA implant appear to be feasible and safe with satisfactory occlusion of the LAA maintained at follow-up.
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