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Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
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Embolization of left atrial appendage occluders: review of the current evidence

Miguel Á Martín-Arena1, Guillermo Galeote-García1,2, Alejandro Lara-García1

  • 1Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain Servicio de Cardiología Hospital Universitario La Paz Madrid Spain.

REC, Interventional Cardiology
|May 6, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure is a safe procedure for non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients at high bleeding risk. This review covers device embolization, a serious complication, including its prevalence, management, and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is a key treatment for non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) in patients with high bleeding risk.
  • While generally safe, LAAC carries risks, notably device embolization, which can be serious and complicate management.
  • Limited evidence exists for managing LAAC device embolization, posing challenges for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of left atrial appendage closure device embolization.
  • To focus on the prevalence, management strategies, and treatment options for this complication.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on LAAC device embolization.
  • Analysis of reported cases, management protocols, and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Device embolization is a known, albeit infrequent, complication of LAAC.
  • Management strategies vary based on device location and clinical presentation.
  • Treatment options range from conservative management to interventional retrieval or surgical intervention.

Conclusions:

  • Left atrial appendage closure device embolization requires careful consideration and tailored management.
  • Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols for this complication.
  • Optimal patient selection and procedural technique are crucial for minimizing embolization risk.

Keywords:
DevicesEmbolizationLeft atrial appendage closure

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