Key result
Left atrial appendage closure devices provide a promising non-pharmacological alternative to systemic anticoagulation for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Why the study?
Do catheter-based left atrial appendage occlusion devices prevent thromboembolic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy?
Do catheter-based left atrial appendage occlusion devices prevent thromboembolic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy?
Catheter-based LAA occlusion devices represent a promising, non-pharmacological alternative for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation, particularly those with contraindications to long-term anticoagulation.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
May support LAA closure in anticoagulation-intolerant AF patients; leaves open need for definitive RCTs versus NOACs.
Cardioembolic stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the prominent source of clot formation. While systemic anticoagulation is the current standard of care, anticoagulants carry many contraindications and possible complications. Techniques for elimination of the LAA are in various stages of development and early clinical use. In the coming years, accumulating data will help guide the management of AF patients at risk of bleeding as well as potentially become first-line therapy to reduce the risk of thromboembolic stroke. The purpose of this article is to review current endovascular and epicardial catheter-based LAA occlusion devices and the clinical data supporting their use.
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Kapur et al. (2014) conducted a review in Atrial fibrillation. Left atrial appendage closure devices vs. Systemic anticoagulation was evaluated. Left atrial appendage closure devices provide a promising non-pharmacological alternative to systemic anticoagulation for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation.
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