Percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage for secondary prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and contraindications to chronic anticoagulant therapy.

Introduction: Stroke accounts for approx. 90% of thromboembolic complications associated with atrial fibrillation. The use of oral anticoagulants is the most effective therapy but is associated with risk of haemorrhagic complications.

Aim: In this article, we describe a series of patients with atrial fibrillation, cardiogenic stroke history, and contraindications for long-term anticoagulant therapy, in whom an alternative method - percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage - was performed.

Material And Methods: Nine patients with atrial fibrillation and previous stroke were qualified for percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage (5 men and 4 women, aged 45-78 years). Physical and neurological examinations were conducted in the qualification period, 1-3 days before the intervention, and 1-3 days and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months following percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage. Transoesophageal echocardiography was carried out in the qualification period, 1-3 days before the intervention, and at 1-3 days and 3 and 6 months following the procedure.

Results: No complications were observed in the perioperative period and during the follow-up period of 16-31 months. Echocardiographic examinations showed that occluders were present in the appropriate positions.

Conclusions: Percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage can be an alternative form of secondary prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and contraindications for long-term anticoagulant therapy or those who have problems managing drug treatment. Complex clinical assessment performed by a neuro-cardiac team allows safe and efficient invasive treatment.