Percutaneous occlusion of the left atrial appendage with AMPLATZER® Cardiac Plug for the prevention of thromboembolic events in chronic atrial fibrillation

ABSTRACT Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of thromboembolic events caused by emboli originating in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Mechanical methods for LAA occlusion have been developed as an alternative to oral anticoagulation. The aim of this study was to present an initial experience with the AMPLATZER ® Cardiac Plug. Methods Patients with permanent or paroxysmal AF and with contraindications or complications of oral anticoagulation were included. Patients with LAA anatomy and measures compatible with the occluder, and without thrombi, were selected through transesophageal echocardiography. Results A total of 14 procedures were performed in 13 patients (5 M:8F), with mean age of 66.7 years. Significant bleeding and previous strokes were found in 69.2% and 53.8%, respectively. AF was permanent in 84.6% and paroxysmal in the remainder. The mean diameters of the ostium and the landing zone were 23.9 mm and 20.8 mm, respectively. Bilobulated LAA was observed in 76.9%. Procedures were possible in all cases. Sixteen devices were used in 13 patients, a ratio of 1.2:1, and only one patient required a second device for LAA occlusion. The mean follow-up was 12.2 months. All LAA remain closed, with no residual defect to date. There was only one late death, unrelated to the procedure. Conclusions LAA occlusion using the AMPLATZER ® Cardiac Plug device was shown to be safe and effective in this small series of patients. The initial results are encouraging and indicate the transcatheter closure of the LAA as an alternative to oral anticoagulation therapy in selected patients.