Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing for Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device Sizing: A Systematic Review and...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a primary site for thrombus formation in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), increasing stroke risk.
• LAA occlusion is an alternative to anticoagulation for NVAF patients with contraindications.
• Accurate device sizing is crucial for successful LAA occlusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the use of 3D printing in planning left atrial appendage occlusion procedures.
• To evaluate the impact of 3D printing on device sizing accuracy and procedural outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was conducted using keywords related to LAA, 3D printing, and occlusion.
• 16 studies employing 3D printing for LAA device sizing and/or deployment were included.
• Data on anatomical measurements, device sizing, implantation, and procedural outcomes were extracted.

Main Results:

• 3D-printed models improved anatomical measurements, device sizing, and implantation compared to standard methods.
• Studies reported reduced device usage per procedure (e.g., 1.7 to 1.1) and shorter procedure times.
• 3D printing was associated with fewer perivascular leaks and residual shunts.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing shows significant potential for improving procedural planning and outcomes in LAA occlusion.
• Larger, multicenter studies are needed to further validate the clinical benefits of 3D printing in this application.
• Future research should explore personalized 3D-printed occlusion devices for LAA thrombosis treatment.