Left atrial appendage occlusion

Purpose of review To allow readers to fully appreciate the uncertainties with this novel yet invasive approach to stroke prevention. Recent findings Percutaneous left atrial (LA) appendage occlusion has emerged as potential nonpharmacologic means to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. Yet the evidence underpinning this new technology is not definitive. Summary In this review, we consider the internal and external validity of the regulatory trials, pathophysiologic basis for LA appendage occlusion and clinical tradeoffs of the procedure.