Left Atrial Appendage Isolation and Preserved Function

A Semi-Automated Algorithm for Segmentation of the Left Atrial Appendage Landing Zone: Application in Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Procedures

Background: Mechanical occlusion of the Left atrial appendage (LAA) using a purpose-built device has emerged as an effective prophylactic treatment in patients with atrial fibrillation at risk of stroke and a contraindication for anticoagulation. A crucial step in procedural planning is the choice of the device size. This is currently based on the manual analysis of the “Device Landing Zone” fr...

Left Atrial Appendage After Electrical Isolation

The left atrial appendage (LAA) has been considered for years as a less relevant part of the left atrium. During the years, its function and role have been extensively studied. The LAA is recognized as the major source (95%) of cardiac emboli in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). In addition, the LAA has been shown to have important roles in atrial natriuretic peptide secretion...

Left Atrial Appendage Function and Stroke Risk.

Epicardial left atrial appendage clip occlusion also provides the electrical isolation of the left atrial appendage.

OBJECTIVES The exclusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) has been used to reduce the risk of stroke associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). While LAA exclusion has been associated with a reduced risk of stroke, the effect on the electrical activity of the LAA (a potential source of AF) remains unknown. As such, we sought to demonstrate whether surgical epicardial clip occlusion leads to th...

Left Atrial Appendage Remodeling After Lariat Left Atrial Appendage Ligation.

BACKGROUND Left atrial appendage (LAA) ligation with the Lariat device is being used for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation. Residual leaks into the LAA are commonly reported after the procedure. Little is known about the anatomic LAA remodeling after Lariat ligation. METHODS AND RESULTS In an exploratory study, we evaluated LAA 3-dimensional geometry via computed tomographic scan in 31...