Prevention and Management of Complications of Left Atrial Appendage Closure Devices.

Atrial fibrillation is associated with an ongoing risk of thromboembolic stroke and systemic embolism due to stasis and thrombus formation within the left atrial appendage (LAA). Transcatheter occlusion or ligation of the LAA represents a potential paradigm shift in the management of stroke prevention in at-risk patients with atrial fibrillation. This review summarizes the types and rates of procedural complications that have been observed with LAA occlusion and ligation; describes strategies that can be implemented to minimize these complications; and discusses management approaches that may limit the impact of these complications on long-term morbidity.