Percutaneous retrieval of a dislocated LAmbre left atrial appendage occluder in a canine model

BACKGROUND: Dislocated left atrial appendage (LAA) occluders can be retrieved by percutaneous intervention when performing device embolization into the left atrium (LA), aorta (AO), or left ventricle (LV). However, few reports exist regarding LAmbre LAA occluder dislocation. OBJECTIVE: The study was aimed to explore the outcome of retrieving dislocated LAmbre LAA occluder. METHODS: Sixteen healthy dogs received LAmbre implants. After implantation of an occlusion device (not released), the occlusion device was completely retrieved. Subsequently, the device was released in the LA, resulting in the dislocation of the device. Angiography and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were performed to check the occluders position. Disposable grasping rat-tooth forceps were used to percutaneously retrieve the LAA occluder. RESULTS: All the 16 dogs were successfully implanted with the LAmbre LAA occluder and the success rate was 100%. After the occluder was released, TEE and angiography confirmed that the device was located in the LA in eight cases (50%), in the AO in five cases (31%), and in the LV in three cases (19%). One subject died due to cardiogenic shock before the retrieval procedure was complete as the device fell into the LV. Two cases of device-related aortic valve injury occurred during the retrieval procedure when the device was located in the LV. No complications were observed when the device was located in the LA or AO. CONCLUSIONS: Device retrieval is feasible in most cases. However, potentially lethal complications may occur once the device is dislocated into the LV/AO.