BACKGROUND: Thrombus formation in the left atrial appendage (LAA) is the main cause of thromboembolic events in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Oral anticoagulants are considered first-line therapy for stroke prevention in AF patients. Despite its proven efficacy, long-term oral anti-coagulation is associated to innumerous limitations. Percutaneous LAA closure has emerged as a new strategy for stroke prevention in high risk AF patients who are not candidates for long term oral anticoagulation therapy. METHODS: We report the initial experience with percutaneous occlusion of the LAA using the new AmplatzerTM Cardiac Plug (ACP - AGA Medical Corp., Golden Valley, USA) in patients with AF and CHADS2 score > 2 who were not eligible for anti-coagulation therapy. Procedures were carried out under general anesthesia and 3D transesophageal echocardiography monitoring in real time. RESULTS: Three male patients, mean age of 79 years and CHADS2 2, 3 and 5 scores had the device successfully implanted using a transeptal approach with no complications, resulting in immediate LAA occlusion and hospital discharge two days later. At the 50-day follow-up, all patients were clinically well with complete LAA occlusion and no complications at transthoracic echocardiography. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous LAA occlusion with the new ACP seems to be an attractive alternative to prevent thromboembolic events in patients with AF and contraindications or limitations for anticoagulation therapy.
Atrial fibrillation; Atrial appendage; Thromboembolism; Anticoagulants; Prostheses and implants
