New Insights into Left Atrial Appendage Closure

Dear Colleagues,

Several studies have shown that 90% of emboli related to non-valvular atrial fibrillation originate from left atrial appendage. Left atrial appendage occlusion is a technique used since 2001 to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and who have contraindications to long-term anticoagulation therapy.

Percutaneous closure or surgical exclusion of the left atrial appendage in patients with high bleeding and high cardioembolic risk is currently a well established procedure in clinical practice and guidelines.

Technological evolution has recently allowed the use of a large number of devices with specific characteristics that can be used clincally to close the left atrial appendage. In addition, preoperative imaging techniques allow for customization of the procedure, preventing procedural failures.

The purpose of this special issue is to describe the most recent innovations regarding this procedure, the clinical issues still open and future perspectives.

Dr. Patrizio Mazzone and Dr. Fabrizio Guarracini

Guest Editors

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