Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: A View from the UK

Abstract

AF is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events, which is usually managed with oral anticoagulation therapy. However, despite a broad range of anticoagulant options and improved uptake in anticoagulation over the past decade, there are some limitations to this approach. Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion has been shown to be an effective alternative in this setting, and population data suggest a clear demand for this procedure. Over the past decade, several important changes to the commissioning and delivery of this service have occurred in the UK. In this article, the authors describe the use of percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion in the UK and discuss the challenges that lie ahead.