Watchman vs. Amulet for Left Atrial Appendage Closure: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Devices
• Stroke Prevention

Background:

• Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is vital for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients who cannot use long-term anticoagulation.
• Amulet and Watchman are the leading LAAC devices globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively compare the efficacy, safety, and outcomes of Amulet versus Watchman devices for LAAC.
• To evaluate short- and long-term results, including peri-device leaks, thrombosis, and mortality.

Main Methods:

• Comparative review of clinical data for Amulet and Watchman LAAC devices.
• Analysis of efficacy, safety, intraprocedural complications, and long-term outcomes.

Main Results:

• Both Amulet and Watchman demonstrate similar efficacy and safety profiles for LAAC.
• While intraprocedural complication rates may differ, short- to long-term outcomes are comparable.
• Both devices are indicated for patients intolerant to oral anticoagulation (OAC).

Conclusions:

• Amulet and Watchman provide similar efficacy and safety for LAAC, serving as viable alternatives to OAC.
• Ongoing research aims to establish LAAC as a primary stroke prevention strategy in atrial fibrillation (AF).