Left atrial appendage closure

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide affecting about 2-3 % of the population in Europe and North America [19]. Due to the relative stasis in the left atrial appendage during AF, there is a tendency of clot formation. These clots might dislodge and cause embolic strokes. Atrial fibrillation is associated with a fivefold increased risk of cerebral ischaemia and a twofold increased mortality rate [18]. Also, strokes related to AF are more severe with patients having a 50 % greater likelihood of becoming disabled or handicapped [8].