Role of real time-three dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in left atrial appendage closure with LACBES^®...

Catheter-based left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has recently become an innovative strategy for preventing embolic events in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). There is limited information on optimal sizing for LAAC with the recently developed LACBES^® device. The aim of the present study was to assess the role of real time-three dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (RT-3D TEE) for LACBES^® device selection during LAAC. A total of 22 patients with nonvalvular AF and indications for LAAC were enrolled in the study. All patients underwent LAAC with LACBES^® devices. TEE was performed in all patients 3 days prior to the procedure, during the procedure, and 3 months and 1 year following the procedure. Interatrial septal puncture, exchange of the sheath and release of the device were performed under the guidance of RT-3D TEE. The LAA ostium and landing zone dimensions measured by RT-3D TEE were better correlated with the device size used for occlusion (r=0.60, P=0.003) than those measured with two dimensional TEE or LAA contrast angiography. There were no clinically significant residual shunts, pericardial effusion or tamponade following occlusion. All patients had the device well-seated and presented no evidence of closure-associated complications during the follow-up. No cases of peri-procedural stroke or mortality were observed during a mean follow-up period of 12 months. In conclusion, RT-3D TEE is a reliable and effective imaging modality to guide LAAC using LACBES^® devices in patients with nonvalvular AF at high risk of cardioembolic events.