Intraoperative echocardiographic contrast opacifies the left atrial appendage and assists in surgical exclusion

Abstract

Surgical exclusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation is frequently incomplete and remains to be optimized. We present a man who did not tolerate anticoagulant and failed percutaneous occlusion. Intraoperative echocardiographic contrast was used to assist surgical exclusion. Follow-up showed a persistent occlusion.

Keywords

• atrial fibrillation
• contrast agent
• left atrial appendage