Subclinical brain lesions after left atrial appendage occlusion: Does silence mean reassurance?

Abstract

Key Points Silent acute brain lesions as diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are common immediately after left atrial closure procedures. Late, 3‐month MRI imaging often shows resolution of the acute brain lesions with no detectable change in brain function by standard neuro‐cognitive testing and no further formation of new brain lesions in patients treated with only anti‐platelet therapy. Silent brain lesions appearing after left atrial closure appear associated with the acute procedural technique and not later during endothelialization of the device.