Clinical Results with Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

Closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation is associated with reduction in embolic events. There is an initial hazard associated with closure methodologies; once successful closure is achieved, the results appear to be superior to those of anticoagulation. The evidence base is largely limited to the safety and efficacy of LAA occlusion in patients who are candidates for anticoagulation as well, and the risk/benefit ratio of competing closure technologies has not been determined. LAA occlusion plus antiplatelet therapy seems to have an acceptable therapeutic and safety profile.