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Left Atrial Appendage Closure Detail

Stroke prevention with percutaneous LAA closure in atrial fibrillation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Left Atrial Appendage Closure Detail?

Left atrial appendage (LAA) closure is an interventional method for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients in whom long-term anticoagulant therapy is contraindicated. Approximately 90% of stroke-causing thrombi in AF originate from the LAA.

WATCHMAN, WATCHMAN FLX, Amplatzer Cardiac Plug and Amulet are FDA-approved devices. The procedure is performed transseptally with TEE/intracardiac echocardiography guidance. Post-procedure short-term anticoagulation transition to single antiplatelet therapy is the standard.

Symptoms

Atrial fibrillation
CHA2DS2-VASc score >=2 (in men) or >=3 (in women)
Anticoagulant intolerance or contraindication
Major bleeding history
Falls and trauma risk
Patient unsuitable for warfarin therapy

Risk Factors

Recurrent major bleeding under anticoagulant
GI bleeding/intracranial bleed history
Active occupation with bleeding risk
Severe renal insufficiency (relative)
Patient incompatibility (poor INR control)
Recurrent falls

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • AF + anticoagulant contraindication
  • Major bleeding under anticoagulation
  • Stroke despite optimal anticoagulant
  • Patient preference (treatment fatigue)
  • Risk-benefit analysis

Treatment Methods

01
TEE (LAA morphology and thrombus assessment)
02
Cardiac CT (planning)
03
Transseptal puncture and LAA access
04
Device sizing (TEE measurements)
05
Device deployment (PASS criteria — Position, Anchor, Size, Seal)
06
45-day post-procedure DAPT (warfarin or DOAC + aspirin)
07
TEE follow-up at 45 days (peri-device leak <5 mm)
08
Long-term aspirin only (in selected patients)
09
Annual clinical follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.