Role of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Left Atrial Appendage Device Closure

Left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion or ligation by percutaneously implanted devices is increasingly an alternative management option for atrial fibrillation, particularly for patients who are intolerant or have contraindications for anticoagulation. Echocardiography plays an important part in screening, guidance of implantation, and after-device assessment. Assessment of LAA anatomy suitable for device implantation, thrombus exclusion, guidance of transseptal puncture, localization of catheter, guidance of device deployment, and after-device assessment are all important functions of echocardiography. This article reviews the role of echocardiography in device-based LAA occlusion or ligation.