Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion and Post-procedural Antithrombotic Management
Anders Kramer, Giuseppe Patti, Jens Erik Nielsen‐Kudsk, Sérgio Berti, Kasper Korsholm
Abstract
Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is an established alternative to oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation. Antithrombotic therapy is used in the post-procedural period to prevent device-related thrombosis (DRT). The risk of DRT is considered highest in the first 45-90 days after device implantation, based on animal studies of the device healing process. Clinically applied antithrombotic regimens vary greatly across studies, continents, and centers. This article gives an overview of the evidence behind current antithrombotic regimens, ongoing randomized trials, and future post-procedural management.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineAntithromboticLeft atrial appendage occlusionAtrial fibrillationStroke (engine)OcclusionThrombosisRandomized controlled trialCardiologyFibrinolytic agentInternal medicineWarfarinEngineeringMechanical engineeringAtrial Fibrillation Management and OutcomesCardiac Arrhythmias and TreatmentsCardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmias