Simulation of the Hemodynamic Effects of the Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Atrial Fibrillation: Preliminary Results

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is responsible for 15–18 % of all strokes. In AF patients, the left atrial appendage (LAA) represents the main thrombogenic spot, being the site of 90% of intracardiac thrombus formation. Therefore, the occlusion of the LAA (LAAO) is a novel strategy for cardioembolic stroke prophylaxis. The aim of this study was the simulation of the fluid dynamics effects of the LAAO in AF patients, by applying two different devices (Amulet™ and Watchman™), in order to predict patient-specific hemodynamic changes due to LAAO and to detect the most effective devices in reducing stroke risk as well.