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.