Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 15, 2026

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Emergent surgical removal of a migrated left atrial appendage occluder
Mohamed El-Gabry1, Sharaf-Eldin Shehada1, Daniel Wendt1
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Centre, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany.
Insights
Left atrial appendage (LAA) occluder embolization after WATCHMAN™ device implantation can lead to serious complications, including perforation and tamponade. Emergent surgical retrieval is crucial for managing these critical events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
Background:
- Left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion is a standard therapy for preventing thromboembolic events in atrial fibrillation patients.
- Percutaneous LAA closure devices, like the WATCHMAN™ device, are widely used.
- Device embolization is a rare but serious complication following LAA occlusion procedures.
Abstract:
Occlusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) in patients with atrial fibrillation has become a standard therapy to prevent thromboembolic complications. We aim to present 3 cases of LAA occluder embolization after percutaneous WATCHMAN™ device implantation, which required emergent surgical retrieval. The device was dislocated in the left atrium, introducing LAA perforation and resulting in pericardial effusion and later tamponade in 1 patient who developed multiorgan failure and died 8 days postoperatively. Other patients were successfully operated and discharged. Hence, LAA occluder embolization may occur asymptomatically with immediate/late serious complications, which indicates emergent surgery.
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