Several scientific societies support performing left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) as a stand-alone procedure, even though it is often associated to other cardiomyopathies requiring transcatheter intervention. Though still controversial, combining LAAO and any other cardiac intervention might reduce hospitalizations, as well as the need for additional punctures, anesthesia, red tape, a longer stay and higher…
TCT 2023 | SWISS-APERO: One-Year Events After Left Atrial Appendage Closure with Amulet or Watchman FLX Device
It has been observed that the persistence of an opening in the left atrial appendage after percutaneous closure (LAAC) is associated with a higher risk of embolic events. Among the most commonly used devices for left atrial appendage closure are the Watchman FLX and Amulet devices. This study, known as SwissApero, represents the first randomized…
Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: Clinical Outcomes according to Device Implantation Depth
Continuous improvement of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) devices has had a positive impact on the safety and efficacy of this technique. However, device related thrombus formation (DRT) is still a major concern because of the associated increased risk of thromboembolic events. Approaching this complication calls for more intense antithrombotic treatments, which in turn involves…
Left Atrial Appendage Closure: As Effective in Men and Women?
Atrial fibrillation is the most prevalent arrhythmia and to prevent its potential complications, we should administer anticoagulants (OACs), either warfarin or the new direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Even though these drugs have been shown effective, they still involve the risk of bleeding, especially gastrointestinal bleeding, which in turn leads to numerous hospitalizations. Left atrial appendage occlusion…