Ligating the left atrial appendage in atrial fibrillation: What additional evidence do surgeons need?

Abstract

Left atrial appendage. Central Message There is a growing body of evidence supporting concomitant LAAO for patients with AF. Further work in both surgical techniques and outcomes is needed.

Contemporary left atrial appendage management during adult cardiac surgery

“…1 Despite consistent institutional experiences documenting the merits of surgical LAAO as part of an AF management strategy during concomitant cardiac operations, clinical practice has been inconsistent and barriers to adoption of AF management relating to knowledge and technical comfort continue to exist. 4,[22][23][24] Recently, 2 major contributions to the literature provide level A evidence in support of surgical LAAO as part on an AF management strategy at the time of cardiac surgery. 25,26 These have the potential to influence future clinical practice guideline recommendations.…”

Left atrial appendage obliteration: Quo vadis?

“…As we interpret the growing body of evidence to determine the best therapy for our patients, we must distinguish between patients undergoing surgical ablation and those who are not. In this issue of the Journal, Drs Dawn Hui and Richard Lee 9 and Dr Craig Smith 10 attempt to provide insight into the questions surrounding LAA obliteration by delivering erudite arguments on both ends of the ideologic spectrum.…”