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Left Atrial Appendage Closure (WATCHMAN)

A percutaneous procedure to close the left atrial appendage and reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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 (WATCHMAN)?

The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the anatomic site where most thrombi form in non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Percutaneous LAA closure uses a transseptal approach to deliver a dedicated device (e.g., WATCHMAN, Amplatzer Cardiac Plug) that seals the appendage ostium.

This option is used in AF patients who cannot tolerate long-term oral anticoagulation, have had major bleeding or have contraindications due to high fall risk. It is performed under transesophageal echocardiographic guidance.

Guidelines recommend LAA closure as a class IIa–IIb indication in selected high-risk patients, followed by short-term anticoagulation and subsequently antiplatelet therapy.

Symptoms

Palpitations from atrial fibrillation
Prior stroke or TIA
Major bleeding on anticoagulation
Nosebleeds, gingival or gastrointestinal bleeding
Frequent falls and trauma
Fatigue and dyspnea
Dizziness

Risk Factors

High CHA2DS2-VASc score
High HAS-BLED score
Bleeding on anticoagulation
Severe renal insufficiency
Prior intracranial hemorrhage
Fall tendency
Anticoagulant contraindication

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Recurrent bleeding on anticoagulation
  • New intracranial hemorrhage
  • Stroke or TIA
  • Intolerable nosebleeds or gingival bleeding
  • Hematoma after a fall
  • AF combined with high bleeding risk

Treatment Methods

01
Procedure planning with transesophageal echocardiography
02
Implantation of a percutaneous LAA closure device
03
Short-term post-procedural anticoagulation
04
Dual antiplatelet therapy
05
Device surveillance with TEE
06
Bleeding control strategies
07
Long-term cardiology 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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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.