Acute Feasibility of Vacuum-Assisted Catheter-Based Left Atrial Appendage Inversion in a Swine Model

Background: The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the predominant site of thrombus formation in atrial fibrillation. Current percutaneous LAA occlusion devices require permanent implants. A catheter-based, non-implant mechanical inversion strategy may offer an alternative approach to stroke prevention. Objectives: To assess the feasibility of vacuum-assisted catheter-based inversion of the LAA using transseptal aspiration in a swine model. Methods: A 59-kg domestic swine underwent transseptal access via the right femoral vein under fluoroscopy, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). A 22-F aspiration catheter was advanced into the left atrium and positioned at the LAA apex. Negative pressure was generated manually with a 60-mL syringe attached to the aspiration port, and sequential suction–traction maneuvers were performed to induce LAA inversion. Procedural feasibility, hemodynamic stability, imaging changes, and gross pathology were assessed. Results: LAA suction and inversion were feasible. Sequential negative pressure applications resulted in complete inversion, confirmed by multiplane TEE. A mild, non-hemodynamically significant pericardial effusion occurred. Necropsy showed focal apex injury consistent with catheter stiffness and suction forces. Conclusions: Catheter-based vacuum-assisted LAA inversion was technically feasible in this acute swine experiment. However, chronic survival studies are required to evaluate durability of inversion, tissue healing, thrombogenicity, and long-term safety before clinical translation can be considered.