Surgical retrieval of a left atrial appendage closure device (Watchman TM) following embolization into the mitral valve

Abstract

Percutaneous placement of occluding devices in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is now a viable alternative to established treatment methods. A favorable advantage is its minimally invasive technique, although it equally poses a risk. Unstable fixation after deployment, while uncommon, can lead to a catastrophic outcome, including damage to intracardiac structures and embolization to the aorta, causing stroke and possibly death. This can quickly become a surgical emergency that requires urgent intervention in the form of open-heart surgery.

Keywords

• atrial fibrillation
• embolization
• left atrial appendage
• watchman