Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: Current and Future

Abstract

Patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) are at an increased risk of ischemic stroke due to the risks of thrombus formation. The left atrial appendage (LAA) is shown to be “the culprit” of thromboembolic events in NVAF and is currently a therapeutic target to prevent stroke. The absolute benefit of oral anticoagulation in the management of NVAF to improve cardiovascular outcomes has been well established. However, some patients are not good long-term candidates for oral anticoagulation for many reasons, including risks of bleeding, noncompliant to oral anticoagulation (OAC). Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) provides an attractive alternative to reduce the risk of stroke for those who are contraindicated to OAC therapy.