Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

In the top left chamber of the heart, in the left atrium is a small sac shaped like an ear in the muscle wall. This is called the left atrial appendage (LAA), but its function is relatively unknown.

Normally, each heartbeat causes the heart to contract. The blood is squeezed from the left atrium and LAA to the left ventricle (the bottom chamber of the heart on the left).

If the electrical impulse that controls the heartbeat does not travel as it should through the heart, it is a condition called atrial fibrillation. When atrial fibrillation causes chaos in the contractions and squeezing motions of the heart, the small pouch of the LAA can collect blood and form blood clots. Patients are 5 to 7 times more prone to strokes if they have atrial fibrillation because the blood clots that form in the LAA can be pumped out of the heart and sent to the brain. Patients with atrial fibrillation are prescribed blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) to reduce the risk of strokes.

Some patients have difficulty taking the blood thinners needed for stroke prevention. In this instance, a procedure to close the left atrial appendage can be recommended. By closing off the sac that collects blood, the need for blood thinners and the risk of strokes are eliminated.

Different devices are available to help in the closure of the left atrial appendage. The experts at Stanislaus Cardiology can help determine which would be best for you.