Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Strengths and Weaknesses of the Lobe-Only Occluder Concept in Theory and in Practice.

ABSTRACT

Left atrial appendage closure aims to eliminate the stasis component of Virchow triad by eliminating a cul-de-sac that favors thrombosis, particularly when atrial contractility becomes inefficient, such as in atrial fibrillation. Left atrial appendage closure devices have a common objective of sealing the appendage completely, with device stability and avoidance of device thrombosis. Two main device designs have been used to perform left atrial appendage closure those that use a pacifier design (lobe + disk) and those that use a plug (single lobe) design. This review highlights the potential features and benefits of the single-lobe devices.