Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion Using the AtriClip Device: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Devices
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation (AF) impacts 1.5-2% of the population, significantly increasing stroke risk.
• The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a primary source of embolic strokes in non-valvular AF patients.
• Effective LAA management is crucial for stroke prevention in AF patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of LAA exclusion using the AtriClip device.
• To assess the feasibility of concurrent AtriClip device insertion during open cardiac surgery.
• To determine the long-term stability and complications associated with LAA exclusion.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 20 patients undergoing open cardiac surgery with concurrent AtriClip device insertion (July 2013 - February 2015).
• Analysis of clinical notes and echocardiographic findings to assess device placement and patient outcomes.
• Indications for LAA exclusion included atrial arrhythmia, left ventricular dilatation, or transient ischemic attacks.

Main Results:

• Successful AtriClip device placement in all 20 participants (100% success rate).
• No device-related adverse events or perioperative mortality were observed.
• Three late deaths occurred due to unrelated comorbidities; no late device-related complications were identified on follow-up.

Conclusions:

• LAA exclusion with the AtriClip device during open cardiac surgery is a safe and effective procedure.
• The AtriClip device demonstrates a 100% success rate and stable outcomes over time.
• This approach offers a reliable method for LAA exclusion, potentially reducing stroke risk in AF patients.