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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: February 28, 2012

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Contrast-free, echocardiography-guided left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAo): a propensity-matched comparison with

Alexander Sedaghat1, Baravan Al-Kassou2, Vivian Vij2

  • 1Med. Klinik und Poliklinik II-Herzzentrum Bonn, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Germany. Alexander.Sedaghat@ukbonn.de.

Clinical Research in Cardiology : Official Journal of the German Cardiac Society
|December 12, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Contrast-free, echocardiographically guided left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAo) using the AMPLATZER™ Amulet™ device is safe and feasible. This method reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional LAAo, offering an alternative for patients needing to avoid contrast dye.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Interventional Procedures

Background:

  • Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAo) traditionally uses fluoroscopy and contrast dye.
  • Contrast dye carries risks, particularly for patients with chronic renal failure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the feasibility and safety of performing LAAo without contrast dye.
  • To utilize 3D echocardiography guidance with the AMPLATZER™ Amulet™ device for contrast-free LAAo.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 20 patients underwent contrast-free LAAo.
  • A propensity-matched comparison was made with conventionally treated patients using contrast dye.
  • Key outcomes included radiation exposure, fluoroscopy time, and procedural success rates.

Main Results:

  • Contrast-free LAAo significantly reduced radiation exposure (13.1 vs. 32.9 Gy*cm², p<0.01) and fluoroscopy time (5.0 vs. 11.6 min, p<0.01).
  • Procedural success rates were 100% in both the contrast-free and conventional groups.
  • No severe periprocedural complications were observed in either group.

Conclusions:

  • Echocardiographically guided, contrast-free LAAo is a safe and feasible alternative.
  • This approach offers reduced radiation exposure, beneficial for patients who must avoid contrast dye.
  • It represents a viable option for LAAo procedures, especially in high-risk patient populations.
Abstract

Keywords:
Contrast-dyeLAALeft atrial appendage occlusionTEE

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