A New Strategy for Transcatheter Left Atrial Appendage Closure With Cerebral Embolic Protection in Patient With Left Auricular Thrombosis and Total Contraindication to Long-Term Anticoagulation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, occurring in 1%-2% of the general population. An important aspect is the treatment of AF in terms of stroke prevention. In patients with absolute contraindication to long-term anticoagulation due to high bleeding risk, a valuable alternative exists in left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. Unfortunately, thrombus in the LAA is a contraindication to the procedure because of high risk of embolization. We describe a clinical case with permanent AF, absolute contraindication to long-term anticoagulation therapy, and persistent thrombus formation in the LAA that was treated with transcatheter LAA closure and supraaortic trunk protection system in order to avoid risk of periprocedural stroke.