Role of transesophageal echocardiography during left atrial appendage occlusion device closure in a patient with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and angiodysplasia of the colon

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia associated with significant mortality and morbidity secondary to thrombo-embolism. To prevent this thrombo-embolism oral anticoagulation therapy is the recommended treatment. In patients with contraindications to oral anticoagulation therapy, percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion device is indicated. TEE is essential to guide in all the stages of LAA device deployment. Right from pre-procedure screening, to guiding during deployment, to rule out any complications and post-procedure surveillance and monitoring long term outcomes.

Keywords

• Amplatzer cardiac plug
• atrial fibrillation
• left atrial appendage occlusion device
• transoesophageal echocardiography