Zero-Contrast Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Using a Hybrid Echocardiography-Fluoroscopy Technique Without Iodinated...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Contrast media used in left atrial appendage occlusion may pose risks.
• Patients with chronic kidney disease and allergies are particularly vulnerable to contrast-related complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a zero-contrast percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion procedure.
• To assess the efficacy of using echocardiography, fluoroscopy, and fusion imaging in a zero-contrast LAAO approach.

Main Methods:

• A single-center registry study included 31 patients undergoing percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion.
• The procedure was performed without the use of iodinated contrast media.
• Echocardiography, fluoroscopy, and fusion imaging were utilized for guidance.

Main Results:

• The zero-contrast percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion demonstrated 100% procedural success.
• No device-related complications were observed in the 45-day follow-up period.
• The technique proved feasible and safe in this cohort.

Conclusions:

• Zero-contrast percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion is a viable alternative for patients at risk from contrast media.
• This approach minimizes risks associated with contrast agents in vulnerable patient populations.
• Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these findings.