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Updated: Sep 20, 2025
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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
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Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure Using an Occluder Device: A Single Center Experience
Isaiah C Lugtu1,2, Wen-Han Cheng1,3, Shih-Lin Chang1,3
1Heart Rhythm Center and Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
Acta Cardiologica Sinica
|June 8, 2022
Summary
Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure is a feasible stroke risk reduction strategy for atrial fibrillation patients, particularly those with bleeding risks. The procedure demonstrated a low rate of major complications, though residual LAA contrast leak was observed in some cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a primary source of thrombus formation in patients with atrial fibrillation.
- Occlusion of the LAA can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in these patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of percutaneous LAA closure using an occluder device.
- To evaluate residual LAA contrast leak on CT imaging after LAA occlusion implantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous LAA occlusion (LAAO) at Taipei Veterans General Hospital.
- Inclusion of 23 patients with a median age of 67 years and a median CHA2DS2-VASc score of 4.
- Assessment of procedural success, complications, and post-implantation CT findings for residual contrast leak.
Main Results:
- Successful device implantation was achieved in 95.7% of patients.
- No deaths, strokes, device embolizations, or major bleeding events occurred.
- Minor complications included cardiac tamponade (1), intra-procedural thrombus (1), mitral valve leaflet impingement (1), and device-related thrombosis (1).
- Residual contrast leak into the LAA was detected in 6 of 12 patients (50%) who underwent post-implantation CT scans.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous LAA occlusion is a feasible procedure with a low risk of major complications.
- Further investigation into managing residual LAA contrast leak is warranted.
