Novel Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure Devices

Left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion has become an effective therapy for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who are unable to tolerate long-term anticoagulation. The Watchman and Amulet devices are currently the only two devices approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for clinical use. There are several other appendage closure devices being developed for clinical use. Some devices fit into the appendage and expand in place, and other devices use a different mechanism. New developments and refinements will help to address issues such as peri-device leak and thrombus formation. Further clinical trials are required for most of these newer devices.