Structural Heart Imaging: Focus on Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

Abstract

Most sonographers see atrial fibrillation (AFib) patients on a daily basis. This is not surprising, as AFib is the most common arrhythmia and will be seen more frequently as people are living longer. 1-3 In fact, it is estimated that AFib prevalence will increase from the current >3 million people to 7.56 million people by 2050. 1-3 The potential for stroke in AFib patients is high, as thrombus can form within the LAA. 4 Seventy five percent of cardioembolic events are thought to arise from the LAA and are assumed to be a result of AFib. 4 Up until recently, AFib patients were either anticoagulated or, in some cases, surgical exclusion of the LAA was done. However, this is typically in conjunction with other cardiac procedures. 3 Anticoagulants subject patients to a considerable risk of bleeding and, in some patients, may be contraindicated. 3