Early results of first versus second generation Amplatzer occluders for left atrial appendage closure in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Background: Transcatheter left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion has been proven to be an effective treatment for stroke prophylaxis in patients with atrial fibrillation. For this purpose, the Amplatzer cardiac plug (ACP) was introduced. Its second generation, the Amulet, was developed for easier delivery, better coverage, and reduction of complications.

Amplatzer left atrial appendage occlusion through a patent foramen ovale.

Objectives: To assess feasibility and outcomes of left atrial appendage (LAA) closure when using a patent foramen ovale (PFO) for left atrial access.

Background: Because of the fear of entering the left atrium too high, using a PFO for left atrial access during LAA occlusion (LAAO) is generally discouraged. We report our single-center experience using a concomitant PFO for LAAO, thereby avoiding transseptal puncture.