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Updated: Jul 24, 2025
The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Endovascular retrieval of left atrial appendage closure device embolized to the aorta
Crista E Horton1, Vincent Athas1, David Ring1
1Department of Surgery, Broward Health Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Insights
A migrated left atrial appendage closure device was successfully retrieved from the aorta using balloon embolectomy. This novel technique protected the contralateral lower extremity from embolization during the retrieval procedure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation patients unsuitable for anticoagulation can opt for left atrial appendage closure.
- Left atrial appendage closure devices are implanted to reduce stroke risk.
- Device migration is a rare but serious complication following left atrial appendage closure.
Abstract:
Patients with atrial fibrillation with contraindications to anticoagulation can undergo left atrial appendage closure with a device. Hours after a 73-year-old man had undergone left atrial appendage closure, he lost perfusion to his lower extremities. Imaging studies showed that the device had migrated to the infrarenal aorta. After right common femoral artery cutdown and sheath placement, the device was retrieved with a balloon embolectomy catheter, and a balloon was simultaneously deployed in the proximal left common femoral artery to prevent device embolization. To the best of our knowledge, this report represents the first documented device retrieval from the aorta using balloon embolectomy and contralateral lower extremity embolic protection.
