Emergency surgical retrieval of a migrated LAmbre device through the mitral valve

Abstract

Left atrial appendage occlusion has become an alternative for long-term anticoagulation for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Although the procedure is safe, life-threatening complications such as embolization of the device or cardiac tamponade might occur. We present a case of a LAmbre device that migrated 4 days after being implanted and remained trapped in the mitral valve. Secondary massive mitral regurgitation with severe stenosis and haemodynamic instability required emergency surgery. The device was successfully removed, but severe damage in the anterior leaflet and chords forced a valve replacement.