Two-year clinical outcome from the Iberian registry patients after left atrial appendage closure

Effectiveness and Safety of an Outpatient Program for Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

BACKGROUND

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is a safe and effective alternative to oral anticoagulation for thromboprophylaxis in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Technological development in devices and imaging techniques, as well as accumulated experience, have increased procedural success rates and decreased complications. Same-day discharge protocols have been proposed in the field of structural heart disease, but this approach has not been studied in detail for the LAAO procedure.

AIM

The aim of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of an outpatient program for LAAO when compared to the conventional treatment approach.

METHODS

We present a retrospective, non-randomized single-center study of 262 consecutive patients undergoing LAAO. Patients were divided into two groups, the first (n = 131) followed a conventional protocol (CP), and the second (n = 131) an outpatient protocol (OP). The primary composite endpoint comprised MACCE (death, stroke, and bleeding), cardiac tamponade, vascular complication, or attendance in the emergency department after hospital discharge at 30 days.

RESULTS

The overall success rate was 99.6%, with a periprocedural complication rate of 2.29%. With regards to the CP versus OP group, there were no differences between incidences of the primary composite endpoint (6.1% PC vs. 3.0% PA, p = 0.24), or after an analysis, with propensity score matching. No differences were observed in the individual endpoints. There was a decrease in hospital length of stay in the same-day discharge group (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

A same-day discharge LAAO program is safe, effective, and feasible when compared to the conventional strategy. Moreover, it reduces hospital length of stay, which might have clinical and economic benefits.

Impact of left atrial appendage closure in patients on anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation and recurrent or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND

Oral anticoagulation in non-valvular atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of bleeding, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to treatment withdrawal in up to 50% of patients and putting them at risk of embolic events. Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) can be an alternative to chronic anticoagulation. We aim to describe the impact of LAAC in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) or chronic iron deficiency anaemia (CIDA) on healthcare resources consumption.

METHODS

Observational retrospective study of patients who underwent LAAC for GIB or CIDA at a single centre.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients with a median age of 74 years and a median Charlson score of six points were included in the study. Angiodysplasias were the most frequent cause of GIB or CIDA. The procedural success rate of LAAC was 100% with a median anticoagulant and antiplatelet treatment duration of 92 days. One year after the LAAC, we found a significant improvement in the lowest haemoglobin concentration and a reduction in the number of red blood cells transfusion, hospital admissions due to GIB and CIDA and the number of endoscopic examinations. One patient died due to a pulmonary thromboembolism. No deaths related to GIB were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

LAAC seems to be a safe and effective alternative to anticoagulation in patients with GIB or CIDA.

Looking for optimal antithrombotic strategy after transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion: a real-world comparison of different antiplatelet regimens

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) has emerged as an effective procedure for the prevention of thromboembolic events in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with contraindications to oral anticoagulation. After the procedure, different antithrombotic regimens have been used, in order to prevent device-related thrombus and trying to minimize bleedings. The search for the optimal antithrombotic strategy is still ongoing. We sought to assess efficacy and safety of different antiplatelet therapy (APT) regimens.

METHODS

We enrolled non-randomized consecutive patients who underwent LAAO at the University Hospital of Parma between 2010 and 2021. Three study groups were identified according to post-procedural APT: long (>1, ≤12 months)-dual APT (DAPT), short (≤ 1 month)-DAPT, lifelong single APT (SAPT). The choice of the APT was left to multidisciplinary team evaluation. The incidence of the primary outcome, a composite of any ischemic or hemorrhagic event, was assessed at follow-up.

RESULTS

We enrolled a total of 130 patients. Technical success was achieved in 123 (94.6%) patients. After LAAO, 39 [31.7%] patients were discharged on short-DAPT, 35 [28.5%] on long-DAPT and 49 [39.8%] on SAPT. After a median follow-up of 32 months, short-DAPT group had a significantly lower occurrence of the primary outcome (3 [7.7%] vs. 7 [20.0%] in long-DAPT vs. 14 [28.6%] in SAPT, p = 0.049], mainly driven by a lower occurrence of the bleeding endpoint (0 vs. 4 [11.4%] in long-DAPT vs. 9 [18.4%] in SAPT, p = 0.020). Finally, comparison of the Kaplan-Meier curves showed that short-DAPT group had a higher primary endpoint-free survival [p = 0.015] compared to the other groups.

CONCLUSION

Post-procedural short-DAPT strategy was associated with better outcomes, mainly driven by reduction of major bleedings.

Latest outcomes of transcatheter left atrial appendage closure devices and direct oral anticoagulant therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation over the past 5 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) are emerging treatment for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data on the safety, efficacy, and medications for LAAC devices in patients with AF are lacking. We aimed to investigate the incidence of all-cause mortality, stroke, and major bleeding in AF patients with LAAC devices and DOACs. Moreover, we aimed to investigate the incidence rate of device-related thrombus (DRT) and the medications used in the management of AF patients with LAAC devices to gain insights into achieving better outcome. Based on a literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases between January 2015 and December 2020, eight LAAC device studies that used WATCHMAN and Amulet, and three DOAC studies that used rivaroxaban, with a total of 24,055 AF patients (LAAC devices, n = 2855; DOAC, n = 21,200), were included. A random-effects model was used to incorporate heterogeneity among studies. The pooled incidence of events per person-years were as follows: all-cause mortality, 0.06 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.02-0.10) for WATCHMAN, 0.04 (95% CI 0.00-0.14) for Amulet, and 0.03 (95% CI 0.01-0.04) for rivaroxaban; stroke; 0.02 (95% CI 0.00-0.04) for WATCHMAN, 0 for Amulet, and 0.01 (95% CI 0.01-0.02) for rivaroxaban; major bleeding, 0.04 (95% CI 0.02-0.06) for WATCHMAN, 0.02 (95% CI 0.00-0.06) for Amulet, and 0.02 (95% CI 0.01-0.03) for rivaroxaban. The incidence rate of DRT was 2.3%, and complications were reported in 9%. The incidence of all-cause mortality, stroke, and major bleeding were similar between LAAC devices and DOACs. The rate of complications was acceptable, and those of DRT were lower than the average incidence reported in previous studies. However, further follow-up is needed. Concomitant anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies should be further evaluated to find the optimal regimen for AF patients with LAAC devices.

[Atrial fibrillation and the limits of oral anticoagulation: for whom are left atrial appendage occluders suitable?]

BACKGROUND

Patients with atrial fibrillation are at a significantly increased risk of thromboembolic events, especially ischemic strokes. Oral anticoagulation reduces this risk, but cannot be used in some patients for various reasons and is associated with a relevantly increased risk of bleeding. As an alternative for prophylaxis of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation, there are different options of left atrial appendage closure.

AIM

This article explains the possibilities of interventional atrial occlusion as well as the suitable patient clientele using an overview of the currently available systems for atrial occlusion, a guideline for patient selection and a summary of the current scientific data.

CONCLUSION AND AVAILABLE SCIENTIFIC DATA

In carefully selected patients suffering from atrial fibrillation with relative or absolute contraindications for oral anticoagulation, interventional closure of the atrial appendage is a safe alternative for prophylaxis against thromboembolic events. The currently available scientific evidence from randomized controlled trials is sparse. Nevertheless, extensive amounts of registry study data suggest a benefit, while the results of several large randomized controlled trials are expected in the coming years.

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion: A review of current devices, clinical evidence, patient selection, and post procedural antithrombotic management

Stroke is a major driver of increased morbidity and mortality in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). While systemic oral anticoagulation (OAC) continues to be the mainstay for stroke reduction therapy in patients with NVAF, several barriers prevent the sustained long-term use of OAC, including increased risk of bleeding, non-compliance, cost, drug-drug interactions, and the need for ongoing laboratory testing. Given the need for continued stroke reduction therapies in patients who are intolerant of or non-compliant with OAC, percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion (LAAO) has emerged as a nonpharmacologic alternative to OAC. The development of percutaneous LAAO techniques is based on data suggesting that more than 90% of thrombi in patients with NVAF originate in the LAA. Two percutaneous LAAO devices are currently in widespread clinical use: Watchman (United States and Europe) and the Amplatzer type of devices (Europe); randomized trial data exist only for the Watchman device. Multiple randomized and nonrandomized trials and registries have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of LAAO in patients who are suitable for short-term anticoagulation using a variety of post-procedural antithrombotic strategies. Ongoing randomized clinical trials on LAAO are focused on OAC-ineligible patients to compare efficacy of LAAO devices against a multitude of antithrombotic options. This review aims to discuss the rationale and evidence for LAAO and post procedural antithrombotic strategies and opportunities for research examination. In addition, we discuss the need for continued investigation of LAAO in populations not well represented in clinical trials or registries, including women, older patients, and underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulation versus left atrial appendage occlusion for primary and secondary stroke prevention after cardioembolic stroke

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulation (NOAC) in patients with previous stroke and non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) in primary and secondary stroke prevention settings.

METHODS

This was a prospective, single-center, non-randomized cohort study of 302 consecutive patients with non-valvular AF and at high risk for stroke. Two treatment strategies were compared: LAAO (n=91) and long-term treatment with NOAC (n=149). The primary outcome was the composite endpoint of death, stroke and major bleeding. Propensity score and cause-of-death analyses were performed to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

In a mean follow-up of 13 months, there were 30 deaths (LAAO 8.8% vs. NOAC 14.8%), five strokes (LAAO 1.1% vs. NOAC 2.7%) and six major bleeds (LAAO 1.1% vs. NOAC 3.4%). There was a non-significant trend for a lower incidence of the primary endpoint in the LAAO group (11.0% vs. 20.9%; HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.17-1.05, p=0.064). Considering only secondary prevention LAAO patients (34.1% of the LAAO group), there was also a non-significant lower incidence of the primary endpoint (LAAO 6.5% vs. 20.9%; HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.07-1.39, p=0.12). While about a fifth of LAAO patients stopped antiplatelet treatment six months after device implantation due to recurrent minor bleeding, no adverse cardiovascular event or major bleeding occurred in this subset of patients.

CONCLUSION

In this registry-based study, LAAO was a reasonable alternative to NOAC for the prevention of a composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke and major bleeding in patients at high risk for stroke.

Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulation versus left atrial appendage occlusion for primary and secondary stroke prevention after cardioembolic stroke

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulation (NOAC) in patients with previous stroke and non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) in primary and secondary stroke prevention settings.

METHODS

This was a prospective, single-center, non-randomized cohort study of 302 consecutive patients with non-valvular AF and at high risk for stroke. Two treatment strategies were compared: LAAO (n=91) and long-term treatment with NOAC (n=149). The primary outcome was the composite endpoint of death, stroke and major bleeding. Propensity score and cause-of-death analyses were performed to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

In a mean follow-up of 13 months, there were 30 deaths (LAAO 8.8% vs. NOAC 14.8%), five strokes (LAAO 1.1% vs. NOAC 2.7%) and six major bleeds (LAAO 1.1% vs. NOAC 3.4%). There was a non-significant trend for a lower incidence of the primary endpoint in the LAAO group (11.0% vs. 20.9%; HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.17-1.05, p=0.064). Considering only secondary prevention LAAO patients (34.1% of the LAAO group), there was also a non-significant lower incidence of the primary endpoint (LAAO 6.5% vs. 20.9%; HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.07-1.39, p=0.12). While about a fifth of LAAO patients stopped antiplatelet treatment six months after device implantation due to recurrent minor bleeding, no adverse cardiovascular event or major bleeding occurred in this subset of patients.

CONCLUSION

In this registry-based study, LAAO was a reasonable alternative to NOAC for the prevention of a composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke and major bleeding in patients at high risk for stroke.

Utility of the CHA2DS2-VASc score for predicting ischaemic stroke in patients with or without atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Anticoagulants are the mainstay treatment for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), and the CHA2DS2-VASc score is widely used to guide anticoagulation therapy in this cohort. However, utility of CHA2DS2-VASc in NVAF patients is debated, primarily because it is a vascular scoring system, which does not incorporate atrial fibrillation related parameters. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the discrimination ability of CHA2DS2-VASc in predicting ischaemic stroke overall, and in subgroups of patients with or without NVAF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

PubMed and Embase databases were searched till June 2020 for published articles that assessed the discrimination ability of CHA2DS2-VASc, as measured by C-statistics, during mid-term (2-5 years) and long-term (>5 years) follow-up. Summary estimates were reported as random effects C-statistics with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Seventeen articles were included in the analysis. Nine studies (n = 453 747 patients) reported the discrimination ability of CHA2DS2-VASc in NVAF patients, and 10 studies (n = 138 262 patients) in patients without NVAF. During mid-term follow-up, CHA2DS2-VASc predicted stroke with modest discrimination in the overall cohort [0.67 (0.65-0.69)], with similar discrimination ability in patients with NVAF [0.65 (0.63-0.68)] and in those without NVAF [0.69 (0.68-0.71)] (P-interaction = 0.08). Similarly, at long-term follow-up, CHA2DS2-VASc had modest discrimination [0.66 (0.63-0.69)], which was consistent among patients with NVAF [0.63 (0.54-0.71)] and those without NVAF [0.67 (0.64-0.70)] (P-interaction = 0.39).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that the discrimination power of the CHA2DS2-VASc score in predicting ischaemic stroke is modest, and is similar in the presence or absence of NVAF. More accurate stroke prediction models are thus needed for the NVAF population.

Meta-analysis of postoperative antithrombotic therapy after left atrial appendage occlusion

Objective

This meta-analysis explored the safety and effectiveness of different anticoagulant regimens after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO).

Methods

Databases, such as PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, were searched to identify eligible studies according to the inclusion criteria. The incidences of events, including device-related thrombus (DRT) formation, stroke, systemic thromboembolism, bleeding, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality, were analyzed using R version 3.2.3.

Results

The screening retrieved 32 studies, including 36 study groups and 4,474 patients. The incidence of outcomes after LAAO was calculated via meta-analysis. In the subgroup analysis, the rates of DRT formation, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality were significantly different among different antithrombotic methods. Single antiplatelet therapy was associated with the highest rate of adverse events, followed by dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) carried lower rates of adverse events.

Conclusions

Anticoagulant therapy had better safety and efficacy than antiplatelet therapy. Thus, for patients with nonabsolute anticoagulant contraindications, anticoagulant therapy rather than DAPT should be actively selected. NOACs displayed potential for further development, and these treatments might represent alternatives to VKAs in the future.

Major Bleeding Predictors in Patients with Left Atrial Appendage Closure: The Iberian Registry II

Introduction and objective: Major bleeding events in patients undergoing left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) range from 2.2 to 10.3 per 100 patient-years in different series. This study aimed to clarify the bleeding predictive factors that could influence these differences. Methods: LAAC was performed in 598 patients from the Iberian Registry II (1093 patient-years; median, 75.4 years). We conducted a multivariate analysis to identify predictive risk factors for major bleeding events. The occurrence of thromboembolic and bleeding events was compared to rates expected from CHA2DS2-VASc (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age, diabetes, stroke history, vascular disease, sex) and HAS-BLED (hypertension, abnormal renal and liver function, stroke, bleeding, labile INR, elderly, drugs or alcohol) scores. Results: Cox regression analysis revealed that age ≥75 years (HR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.3 to 4.8; p = 0.004) and a history of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) (HR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1 to 3.9; p = 0.020) were two factors independently associated with major bleeding during follow-up. Patients aged <75 or ≥75 years had median CHA2DS2-VASc scores of 4 (IQR: 2) and 5 (IQR: 2), respectively (p < 0.001) and HAS-BLED scores were 3 (IQR: 1) and 3 (IQR: 1) for each group (p = 0.007). Events presented as follow-up adjusted rates according to age groups were stroke (1.2% vs. 2.9%; HR: 2.4, p = 0.12) and major bleeding (3.7 vs. 9.0 per 100 patient-years; HR: 2.4, p = 0.002). Expected major bleedings according to HAS-BLED scores were 6.2% vs. 6.6%, respectively. In patients with GIB history, major bleeding events were 6.1% patient-years (HAS-BLED score was 3.8 ± 1.1) compared to 2.7% patients-year in patients with no previous GIB history (HAS-BLED score was 3.4 ± 1.2; p = 0.029). Conclusions: In this high-risk population, GIB history and age ≥75 years are the main predictors of major bleeding events after LAAC, especially during the first year. Age seems to have a greater influence on major bleeding events than on thromboembolic risk in these patients.

Device-Related Thrombosis After Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion for Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion is an alternative strategy for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to determine the incidence, predictors, and prognosis of thrombus formation on devices in patients with AF who were treated with LAA closure.

METHODS

The study retrospectively analyzed data from patients treated with 2 LAA closure devices seen in 8 centers in France from February 2012 to January 2017.

RESULTS

A total of 469 consecutive patients with AF underwent LAA closure (272 Watchman devices [Atritech, Boston Scientific, Natick, Massachusetts] and 197 Amplatzer devices [St. Jude Medical, Minneapolis, Minnesota]). Mean follow-up was 13 ± 13 months, during which 339 (72.3%) patients underwent LAA imaging at least once. There were 98 major adverse events (26 thrombi on devices, 19 ischemic strokes, 2 transient ischemic attacks, 18 major hemorrhages, 33 deaths) recorded in 89 patients. The incidence of device-related thrombus in patients with LAA imaging was 7.2% per year. Older age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.07 per 1-year increase; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01 to 1.14; p = 0.02) and history of stroke (HR: 3.68; 95% CI: 1.17 to 11.62; p = 0.03) were predictors of thrombus formation on the devices, whereas dual antiplatelet therapy (HR: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.76; p = 0.03) and oral anticoagulation at discharge (HR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.77; p = 0.02) were protective factors. Thrombus on the device (HR: 4.39; 95% CI: 1.05 to 18.43; p = 0.04) and vascular disease (HR: 5.03; 95% CI: 1.39 to 18.23; p = 0.01) were independent predictors of ischemic strokes and transient ischemic attacks during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Thrombus formation on the device is not uncommon in patients with AF who are treated by LAA closure. Such events are strongly associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke during follow-up. (REgistry on Real-Life EXperience With Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion [RELEXAO]; NCT03279406).

Left atrial appendage occlusion for stroke despite oral anticoagulation (resistant stroke). Results from the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug registry

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Despite the efficacy of oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy, some patients continue to have a high residual risk and develop a stroke on OAC therapy (resistant stroke [RS]), and there is a lack of evidence on the management of these patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) as secondary prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who have experienced a stroke/transient ischemic attack despite OAC treatment.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug multicenter registry on 1047 consecutive patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation undergoing LAAO. Patientes with previous stroke on OAC therapy as indication for LAAO were identified and compared with patients with other indications.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients (11%) with RS were identified. The CHA₂DS₂-VASc and the HAS-BLED score were significantly higher in the RS group (respectively 5.5±1.5 vs 4.3±1.6; P <.001; 3.9±1.3 vs 3.1±1.2; P <.001). No significant differences were observed in periprocedural major safety events (7.8 vs 4.5%; P=.1). With a mean clinical follow-up of 16.2±12.2 months, the observed annual stroke/transient ischemic attack rate for the RS group was 2.6% (65% risk reduction) and the observed annual major bleeding rate was 0% (100% risk reduction).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with RS undergoing LAAO showed similar safety outcomes to patients without RS, with a significant reduction in stroke/transient ischemic attack and major bleeding events during follow-up. Adequately powered controlled trials are needed to further investigate the use of LAAO in RS patients.

Transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation: results from the Belgian registry

AIMS

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy at midterm follow-up of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) using different devices, in real life in Belgium.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between June 2009 and November 2016, 457 consecutive patients (63% male, 75±12 yrs, CHA2DS2-VASc 4±0.6, HAS-BLED 3.5±0.7) undergoing LAAO were included. Technical success was 97.1%. There were 19 periprocedural major adverse events (4.1%) including three deaths (0.6%), nine tamponades (1.9%), four major bleedings (0.8%) and two device embolisations (0.4%). Among patients successfully implanted having a complete follow-up (672 patient-years, median follow-up 370 days), the actual annual stroke rate was 1.2%, lower than the expected stroke risk of 4% (70% reduction). The observed bleeding rate was 2%, while the calculated risk was 3.7% (46% reduction). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a similar overall survival (93±2% and 87±3% versus 91±3% and 87±4%; p=0.35) and event-free survival (92±2% and 84±3% versus 88±3% and 80±5%; p=0.17) at one and two years, for the ACP/Amulet versus the WATCHMAN groups of patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The data from the Belgian left atrial appendage occlusion registry suggest that the procedure is effective and relatively safe in a real-world setting, using either the WATCHMAN or the ACP/Amulet device.

Dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion: single center experience with the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is an alternative to anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation patients at high bleeding risk. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is generally recommended in the months following the procedure to prevent thrombotic complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of DAPT after LAAO in a single-centre population of high bleeding risk patients.

METHODS

All patients who received DAPT after LAAO using the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug at Jessa Hospital (Hasselt, BE) between February 2011 and October 2016 were included. Patient characteristics, procedural outcome and clinical events (bleeding, stroke and adverse events) were prospectively followed. Changes in antithrombotic and/or anticoagulant regimens were assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients (77 ± 7 years, 51% male, CHA₂DS₂-VASc 5(3-6), Hypertension, Abnormal Renal/Liver Function, Stroke, Bleeding History or Predisposition, Labile INR, Elderly, Drugs/Alcohol Concomitantly (HAS-BLED) 3(3-4)) were included. An initial strategy of one month DAPT (n = 2) was changed to six months DAPT (n = 37) after one thrombotic complication (device thrombosis) at 4.5 months. Post-procedural DAPT duration was 6.1 ± 3.7 months, after which aspirin monotherapy (62%), no antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy (15%) or a tailored antithrombotic regimen was maintained. At mean follow-up of 21 ± 13 months, seven patients had died (18%), no strokes had occurred (0%) and nine bleedings of which four were major (10%). All major bleedings occurred within the first six months after the procedure during DAPT.

CONCLUSION

Antithrombotic therapy after percutaneous LAAO is needed to prevent thrombotic complications, yet these impose bleeding complications in this high-risk population. Further efforts are needed to define the optimal duration of DAPT, aimed at reducing bleeding complications while maintaining a low thrombosis rate.

Current Endocardial Approaches for Left Atrial Appendage Closure

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[Left atrial appendage occlusion in elderly]

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is an alternative option to oral anticoagulation therapy in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. According to French regulations, this procedure is currently reserved for patients with formal contraindications to VKA and direct thrombin inhibitors. LAAO procedures reduce ischemic and stroke risks compared to no treatment and also reduce bleeding events compared to VKA therapy in eligible patients. The peri-procedural complications risk has been reported to be limited in the different series published so far. Although elderly patients (>75 years) have either higher ischemic and bleeding risk than younger subjects, they hardly benefit from optimal anticoagulation. Thus, these subjects might greatly benefit from LAAO. Published studies reported excellent feasibility and efficiency of LAAO procedure in elderly patients. Yet there is a trend towards a higher incidence of peri-procedural complications (including tamponade), long-term safety is excellent and comparable to what is observed in patients<75 years. Therefore, interventional percutaneous LAAO is an attractive strategy in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation that should be incorporated in a multidisciplinary management.

Left Atrial Appendages Occlusion: Current Status and Prospective

Stroke continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Oral anticoagulation (OAC) provides protection against stroke and peripheral embolization in AF but significant proportion of patients could not be started on anticoagulation because of bleeding complications. Left atrial appendage harbors clot in about 90% of nonvalvular AF. The advent of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) techniques has provided these patients with alternative to OAC for stroke prophylaxis. Multiple LAAO devices are currently available with Watchman and Amulet being the most commonly used in clinical practice. Randomized studies are available for Watchman device only. Data on Amplatzer Cardiac Plug, Amulet and Lariat devices are limited by the paucity of randomized data. Long-term data on different LAAO techniques are showing promising results. Device related thrombosis continues to be a serious complication associated with LAAO. Future studies should look into comparative effectiveness between different LAAO techniques, optimal patient selection, risk of complications, and anticoagulant treatment after LAAO. This article aims to provide current available evidence on efficacy and safety of different LAAO devices and future prospective.

CT sizing for left atrial appendage closure is associated with favourable outcomes for procedural safety

Aims

We evaluated the utility of computerized tomography (CT) with respect to sizing work-up for percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure, and implications for procedural safety and outcomes.

Methods and results

Contrast-enhanced multi-detector CT was routinely conducted to guide sizing for LAA closure in addition to transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE). Procedural safety and efficacy were prospectively assessed. Across 73 consecutive cases there were no device-related procedural complications, and no severe leaks. Systematic bias in orifice sizing by TOE vs. CT was significant on retrospective analysis (bias -3.0 mm vs. maximum diameter on CT; bias -1.1 mm vs. mean diameter on CT). Importantly, this translated to an altered device size selection in more than half of all cases, and median size predicted by CT was one interval greater than that predicted by TOE (27 mm vs. 24 mm). Of particular note, gross sizing error by TOE vs. CT was observed in at least 3.4% of cases. Degree of discrepancy between TOE and CT was correlated with LAA orifice eccentricity, orifice size, and left atrial volume. Mean orifice size by CT had the greatest utility for final Watchman device-size selection.

Conclusions

In this single-centre registry of LAA closure, routine incorporation of CT was associated with excellent outcomes for procedural safety and absence of major residual leak. Mean orifice size may be preferable to maximum orifice size. A particular value of CT may be the detection and subsequent avoidance of gross sizing error by 2D TOE that occurs in a small but important proportion of cases.

Long-term Event Reduction After Left Atrial Appendage Closure. Results of the Iberian Registry II

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Many patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation are still left without protection due to a contraindication for anticoagulants. This study aimed to establish the occurrence of stroke and major bleeding events in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and left atrial appendage closure with long-term follow-up and to explore the factors associated with higher long-term mortality.

METHODS

Analysis of a multicenter single cohort prospectively recruited from 2009 to 2015. Thromboembolic and bleeding events were compared with those expected from CHA₂DS₂-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. Multivariate analysis examined variables associated with mortality during follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 598 patients (1093 patient-years) with a contraindication for anticoagulants were recruited (median 75.4 years). The success rate of left atrial appendage closure device implantation was 95.8%. Thirty patients (5%) experienced periprocedural complications. The rate of events (per 100 patient-years) during follow-up (mean 22.9 months; median 16.1 months) was as follows: death 7.0%; ischemic stroke 1.6% (vs 8.5% expected according to CHA₂DS₂-VASc; P < .001); intracranial hemorrhage 0.8%; gastrointestinal bleeding 3.2%; severe bleeding 3.9% (vs 6.3% expected by HAS-BLED, P = .002). These results were improved in the subgroup of 176 patients with follow-up > 24 months (mean follow-up 46.6 months, 683 patient-years) for severe bleeding 2.6% (vs 6.3% expected by HAS-BLED, P < .033). The factors significantly associated with higher mortality were age (HR, 1.1), intracranial hemorrhage (HR, 6.8), and stroke during follow-up (HR, 2.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Left atrial appendage closure significantly reduced the incidence of stroke and bleeding events and the benefit was maintained. Intracranial hemorrhage, age and stroke were associated with higher mortality.

Transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion in patients with atrial fibrillation and a high bleeding risk using aspirin alone for post-implant antithrombotic therapy

AIMS

The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) with the AMPLATZER Cardiac Plug (ACP) or Amulet using aspirin alone (ASA) as post-implantation antithrombotic treatment.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a single-centre, prospective, non-randomised study on LAAO with the ACP or Amulet in a consecutive cohort (n=110) treated by ASA alone post implantation. The primary outcome was device-related thrombosis, while secondary outcomes were ischaemic stroke or major bleeding. Clinical follow-up was conducted after six weeks and 12 months with TEE and cardiac CT. One hundred and seven patients were included in the analysis. Three patients were excluded due to a mechanical valve prosthesis. CHA2DS2-VASc score was 4.4±1.6 and HAS-BLED 4.1±1.1. Successful implantation was obtained in all patients with a periprocedural complication rate of 4.6%. Median follow-up was 2.3 years, with a total of 265 patient-years. Device-related thrombosis was detected in 2/107 (1.9%) cases. Stroke occurred in 6/107 patients, with an annualised rate of 2.3%, which is a 61% risk reduction compared to the predicted rate. Annual risk of major bleeding was reduced by 57%.

CONCLUSIONS

LAAO with the ACP or Amulet was safely performed with ASA monotherapy after implantation without an increased risk of device-related thrombosis or stroke.

Spanish Cardiac Catheterization and Coronary Intervention Registry. 26th Official Report of the Spanish Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cardiac Catheterization and Interventional Cardiology (1990-2016)

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

The Working Group on Cardiac Catheterization and Interventional Cardiology presents its annual report on the activity data for 2016.

METHODS

All Spanish hospitals with catheterization laboratories were invited to voluntarily contribute their activity data. The information was collected online and was analyzed mainly by an independent company.

RESULTS

In 2016, 106 centers participated in the national registry; 80 of these centers are public. A total of 154 362 diagnostic studies were carried out, of which 135 332 were coronary angiograms. These figures are 14% higher than in previous years. The Spanish average of total diagnostic procedures per million population was 3322 (3.127 in 2015). The number of coronary interventional procedures was 7% higher than in the previous year: 68 695 (67 671 in 2015) and, although multivessel treatment decreased by 3%, unprotected left main trunk treatment increased by 9.4%. A total of 104 628 stents were implanted, of which 88 344 (84.4%) were drug-eluting stents (10% higher than in 2015) and 1610 were bioresorbable scaffolds. A total of 20 588 interventional procedures were performed in the acute myocardial infarction setting (10% increase), of which 83.7% were primary angioplasties. The radial approach was used in 74.2% of the diagnostic procedures, similar to the previous year, and in 82.6% of interventional procedures (7% increase). The number of transcatheter aortic valve implantations continued to increase (28% increase, n = 2026), as did the number of percutaneous mitral valve repair procedures (MitraClip) (45% increase, n = 232) and left atrial appendage closures (48.5% increase, n = 496).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in acute myocardial infarction increased in 2016. The use of the radial approach and drug-eluting stents also increased in therapeutic procedures. The growing trend observed in previous years continued for the use of transcatheter aortic prosthesis, the MitraClip device, and left atrial appendage closure.

First results of the Brazilian Registry of Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure

Background

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is an effective alternative to oral anticoagulation (OA) for the prevention of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

Objective

To present the immediate results and late outcomes of patients submitted to LAAC and included in the Brazilian Registry of Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure.

Methods

91 patients with NVAF, high stroke risk (CHA₂DS₂VASc score = 4.5 ± 1.5) and restrictions to OAC (HAS-BLED score = 3.6 ± 1.0) underwent 92 LAAC procedures using either the Amplatzer cardiac plug or the Watchman device in 11 centers in Brazil, between late 2010 and mid 2016.

Results

Ninety-six devices were used (1.04 device/procedure, including an additional non-dedicated device), with a procedural success rate of 97.8%. Associated procedures were performed in 8.7% of the patients. Complete LAAC was obtained in 93.3% of the successful cases. In cases of incomplete closure, no residual leak was larger than 2.5 mm. One patient needed simultaneous implantation of 2 devices. There were 7 periprocedural major (5 pericardial effusions requiring pericardiocentesis, 1 non-dedicated device embolization and 1 coronary air embolism without sequelae) and 4 minor complications. After 128.6 patient-years of follow-up there were 3 deaths unrelated to the procedure, 2 major bleedings (one of them in a patient with an unsuccessful LAAC), thrombus formation over the device in 2 cases (both resolved after resuming OAC for 3 months) and 2 strokes (2.2%).

Conclusions

In this multicenter, real world registry, that included patients with NVAF and high thromboembolic and bleeding risks, LAAC effectively prevented stroke and bleeding when compared to the expected rates based on CHA₂DS₂VASc and HASBLED scores for this population. Complications rate of the procedure was acceptable considering the beginning of the learning curve of most of the involved operators.

Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and Previous Major Gastrointestinal Bleeding (from the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug Multicenter Registry)

History of major gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding may represent a frequent clinical indication for left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aims to investigate the procedural safety and long-term outcome of patients with previous major GI bleeding (MGIB) who underwent LAAO. Data from the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug multicenter registry on 1,047 patients were analyzed. Patients with previous MGIB as indication for LAAO were compared with patients without previous MGIB. A total of 151 patients (14.4%) with previous MGIB were identified. Periprocedural major bleeding events were more frequent in patients with previous MGIB (4.0% vs 0.8%, p = 0.001). With an average follow-up of 1.3 years, the observed annual rate of stroke/transient ischemic attack and major bleeding for patients with previous MGIB were 2.1% (61.4% relative reduction according to the Congestive Heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75 (doubled), Diabetes, Stroke (doubled), Vascular disease, Age 65-74, and Sex (female) [CHA₂DS₂-VASc] score) and 4.6% (20.1% relative reduction according to the expected rate based on the Hypertension, Abnormal renal/liver function (1 point each), Stroke, Bleeding history or predisposition, Labile INR, Elderly (>65 years), Drugs/alcohol concomitantly (1 point each) [HAS-BLED] score), respectively. In conclusion, in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and previous MGIB, LAAO was associated with a low annual rate of stroke/transient ischemic attack. Periprocedural major bleeding events were more frequent in this specific population although the annual major bleeding rate showed a 20.1% relative risk reduction according to the HAS-BLED score.

2017 consensus of the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society on stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia, causing a 2-fold increase in mortality and a 5-fold increase in stroke. The Asian population is rapidly aging, and in 2050, the estimated population with AF will reach 72 million, of whom 2.9 million may suffer from AF-associated stroke. Therefore, stroke prevention in AF is an urgent issue in Asia. Many innovative advances in the management of AF-associated stroke have emerged recently, including new scoring systems for predicting stroke and bleeding risks, the development of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs), knowledge of their special benefits in Asians, and new techniques. The Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS) aimed to update the available information, and appointed the Practice Guideline sub-committee to write a consensus statement regarding stroke prevention in AF. The Practice Guidelines sub-committee members comprehensively reviewed updated information on stroke prevention in AF, emphasizing data on NOACs from the Asia Pacific region, and summarized them in this 2017 Consensus of the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society on Stroke Prevention in AF. This consensus includes details of the updated recommendations, along with their background and rationale, focusing on data from the Asia Pacific region. We hope this consensus can be a practical tool for cardiologists, neurologists, geriatricians, and general practitioners in this region. We fully realize that there are gaps, unaddressed questions, and many areas of uncertainty and debate in the current knowledge of AF, and the physician׳s decision remains the most important factor in the management of AF.

Convexity Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa (PA) Infective Endocarditis and Left Atrial Appendage Occluder (LAAO) Device Infection. A Case Report

An 83 year-old-man with left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) developed Pseudomonas Aeruginosa (PA) infective endocarditis. MRI at day 3 of onset showed distal small infarcts in both middle cerebral arteries and left postero-inferior cerebellar artery territories. MRI at day 6 revealed two sites of convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage (cSAH). MRA and CTA failed to reveal a Mycotic aneurysm.

The radiologic findings favor the assumption of necrosis of distal branches of mca or of pial arteries wall.

This case present three unusual features: the presence of localized cSAH after initiation of antibiotherapy without mycotic aneurysm being individualized; the late occurrence of infective endocarditis after LAAO implantation; the very rare occurrence of PA in prosthetic infections.

ANMCO/AIAC/SICI-GISE/SIC/SICCH Consensus Document: percutaneous occlusion of the left atrial appendage in non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients: indications, patient selection, staff skills, organisation, and training

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and its prevalence is increasing due to the progressive aging of the population. About 20% of strokes are attributable to AF and AF patients are at five-fold increased risk of stroke. The mainstay of treatment of AF is the prevention of thromboembolic complications with oral anticoagulation therapy. Drug treatment for many years has been based on the use of vitamin K antagonists, but recently newer and safer molecules have been introduced (dabigatran etexilate, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban). Despite these advances, many patients still do not receive adequate anticoagulation therapy because of contraindications (relative and absolute) to this treatment. Over the last decade, percutaneous closure of left atrial appendage, main site of thrombus formation during AF, proved effective in reducing thromboembolic complications, thus offering a valid medical treatment especially in patients at increased bleeding risk. The aim of this consensus document is to review the main aspects of left atrial appendage occlusion (selection and multidisciplinary assessment of patients, currently available methods and devices, requirements for centres and operators, associated therapies and follow-up modalities) having as a ground the significant evolution of techniques and the available relevant clinical data.

Device-associated thrombus formation after left atrial appendage occlusion: A systematic review of events reported with the Watchman, the Amplatzer Cardiac Plug and the Amulet

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to provide a systematic review of device-associated thrombosis (DAT) after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) with the Watchman, Amplatzer Cardiac Plug, and Amulet devices.

BACKGROUND

DAT is known as a complication of LAAO but data about its clinical impact is scarce.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies evaluating the incidence, treatment and clinical implications of DAT from January 2008 to September 2015 was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 30 studies describing DAT events were included in the analysis. The overall incidence of DAT was 3.9% (82 DAT for 2118 implanted devices). The median time from procedure to diagnosis of DAT was 1.5 months (IQR: 0-2.9). Most cases were diagnosed with transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). The treatment consisted of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in 45.5% of cases, and oral anticoagulation (OAC) or other treatment modalities in 54.5%. Complete thrombus resolution was achieved in 95.0% of cases (100% with LMWH and 89.5% with OAC). Treatment duration varied greatly with a median treatment duration of 45 days (IQR: 14-135). Clinical events related to DAT consisted of neurologic events namely two transient ischemic attacks (2.4%) and four ischemic strokes (4.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

DAT is an infrequent complication of percutaneous LAAO. It occurs mainly early after the procedure and is associated with a low rate of neurological complications. In the majority of cases, diagnosis is made during follow-up imaging with TEE. Anticoagulation treatment seems to be safe and highly effective. Further studies are needed to evaluate the optimal management of DAT. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Interventional left atrial appendage closure vs novel anticoagulation agents in patients with atrial fibrillation indicated for long-term anticoagulation (PRAGUE-17 study)

Atrial fibrillation (AF), with a prevalence of 1% to 2%, is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. Without antithrombotic treatment, the annual risk of a cardioembolic event is 5% to 6%. The source of a cardioembolic event is a thrombus, which is usually formed in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Prevention of cardioembolic events involves treatment with anticoagulant drugs: either vitamin K antagonists or, recently, novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC). The other (nonpharmacologic) option for the prevention of a cardioembolic event involves interventional occlusion of the LAA.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether percutaneous LAA occlusion is noninferior to treatment with NOAC in AF patients indicated for long-term systemic anticoagulation.

STUDY DESIGN

The trial will be a prospective, multicenter, randomized noninferiority trial comparing 2 treatment strategies in moderate to high-risk AF patients (ie, patients with history of significant bleeding, or history of cardiovascular event(s), or a with CHA₂DS₂VASc ≥3 and HAS-BLED score ≥2). Patients will be randomized into a percutaneous LAA occlusion (group A) or a NOAC treatment (group B) in a 1:1 ratio; the randomization was done using Web-based randomization software. A total of 396 study participants (198 patients in each group) will be enrolled in the study. The primary end point will be the occurrence of any of the following events within 24months after randomization: stroke or transient ischemic attack (any type), systemic cardioembolic event, clinically significant bleeding, cardiovascular death, or a significant periprocedural or device-related complications.

CONCLUSION

The PRAGUE-17 trial will determine if LAA occlusion is noninferior to treatment with NOAC in moderate- to high-risk AF patients.