Expert Consensus on Transcatheter Left Atrial Appendage Closure-Panel Discussion

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discussion centered around the topic of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures, specifically addressing the question of whether it is feasible to perform these procedures in hospitals without surgical backup. The panelists, Dr. Wisnett, Dr. Kavinsky, Dr. Holmes, and Dr. Wong, shared their opinions and experiences on the matter. Dr. Wisnett suggested that the guidelines still recommend the procedure be done in hospitals with surgical backup, even though complications are rare. Dr. Kavinsky explained that early in the learning process, it is important to have cardiovascular surgical backup readily available, but as experience and confidence grow, readily available backup may be sufficient. The panelists also discussed the importance of imaging, specifically intracardiac echo (ICE), for guiding LAAO procedures. The conversation touched on topics such as device-related thrombus, periprocedural leak, and the need for further studies to expand indications and improve safety for patients undergoing LAAO procedures. The video discussion concluded with the acknowledgement that there is still much to learn and discover in this field. No credits were mentioned in the transcript.

Keywords

left atrial appendage occlusion

LAAO procedures

surgical backup

complications

intracardiac echo

patient safety