Meta-analysis of Surgical Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion During Cardiac Surgery

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia in the elderly population and represents a significant risk for cardio-embolic stroke secondary to thrombi originating from the left atrial appendage.1,2 Although oral anticoagulation is considered the standard of care, numerous concerns exist. Patient noncompliance, intolerance, and subtherapeutic drug levels are examples.3 Moreover, the risk of bleeding poses a significant problem, especially in elderly, frail patients. Surgical-left atrial appendage occlusion (S-LAAO) has been considered an alternative strategy to reduce the risk of future cardioembolic events.
Source: The American Journal of Cardiology - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research