Implantation of the AMPLATZER™ Cardiac Plug: tips and tricks

Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol. 2013 Mar;24(1):33-8. doi: 10.1007/s00399-013-0250-1. Epub 2013 Mar 12.

Abstract

The AMPLATZER™ Cardiac Plug device is designed for percutaneous occlusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) for stroke prophylaxis in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who are contraindicated or intolerant to oral anticoagulation. While updated guidelines start to refer to this therapy (Camm A, Eur Heart J, doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehs253, 2012) and operators gain experience with this relatively new technique, continuing efforts are focused on maximizing the safety of the implantation procedure. This paper is aimed at explaining and illustrating the distinct steps and specific considerations related to the implantation of the AMPLATZER™ Cardiac Plug.

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Appendage / surgery*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Patient Selection*
  • Prosthesis Implantation / instrumentation
  • Prosthesis Implantation / methods
  • Septal Occluder Device*
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Stroke / prevention & control*
  • Treatment Outcome