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Updated: Nov 2, 2025

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Cardioform Septal Occluder for the Closure of a Peri-Device Leak After Initial Watchman Implantation
Jose R Sleiman1, Antonio J Lewis1, Eduardo J Perez1
1Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, USA.
Insights
Left atrial appendage occlusion effectively reduces stroke risk in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). This study shows successful closure of residual peri-device leaks (PDL) using a Cardioform septal occluder, offering a new strategy for oral anticoagulation discontinuation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Interventional Procedures
Background:
- Left atrial appendage occlusion is a key strategy for stroke risk reduction in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF).
- Complete occlusion is ideal, but residual peri-device leaks (PDL) can increase stroke risk.
- Discontinuation of oral anticoagulation is desirable for patients with AF and PDL.
Observation:
- Residual peri-device leaks (PDL) after Watchman implantation are a clinical concern.
- A non-fenestrated Cardioform septal occluder was used to address these leaks.
- The procedure aimed to achieve complete closure and enable oral anticoagulation cessation.
Findings:
- Successful closure of PDL was achieved using the Cardioform septal occluder.
- The procedure demonstrated safety and feasibility in the described cases.
- This approach offers a potential solution for managing PDL post-occlusion.
Implications:
- Successful PDL closure may allow safe discontinuation of oral anticoagulation in AF patients.
- This technique provides an alternative for patients with residual leaks after LAA occlusion.
- Further research can validate the long-term efficacy and safety of this PDL closure strategy.
Abstract:
Left atrial appendage occlusion has become a safe and effective alternative for stroke-risk reduction among patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Although complete closure is ideal, residual peri-device leaks (PDL) are not uncommon and have been associated with an increased residual risk of stroke. PDL closure has been proposed as an alternate strategy to allow for the safe discontinuation of oral anticoagulation. We describe the safety and feasibility of successful PDL closure using a non-fenestrated Cardioform (Gore Medical, Flagstaff, Arizona) septal occluder after initial Watchman (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, Massachusetts) implantation.
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