Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion during Cardiac Surgery to Prevent Stroke
Sadia Choudhury, Robert Gatherer, Sibtain Anwar
Abstract
To the Editor: In the Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Study (LAAOS III), Whitlock et al. (June 3 issue)1 report a reduced risk of ischemic stroke among patients with atrial fibrillation who underwent cardiac surgery when left atrial appendage occlusion was performed during the surgical procedure. Many patients undergoing intervention for coronary artery or valvular heart disease can be successfully treated with a percutaneous or surgical approach.2,3 In choosing between these options, the heart team usually bases its decision on the characteristics of the underlying cardiac disease and those of the patient, including coexisting conditions.4 Currently, there is no proof of . . .
Topics & Concepts
MedicineLeft atrial appendage occlusionStroke (engine)Atrial fibrillationAppendageCardiologyAtrial AppendageOcclusionInternal medicineCardiac surgerySurgeryWarfarinAnatomySinus rhythmEngineeringMechanical engineeringAtrial Fibrillation Management and Outcomes