Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Afib
Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is a minimally invasive treatment that may offer another way to reduce AFib-related stroke risk for certain patients.
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Southeast Michigan West MichiganHow Does Left Atrial Appendage Closure Reduce Stroke Risk?
AFib causes the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly. This can allow blood to collect in a small pouch in the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA), where a blood clot may form. If a clot leaves the heart and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.
Left atrial appendage closure, sometimes called left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO), uses a catheter-based procedure to close off this area of the heart. Once the appendage is sealed, blood can no longer collect there in the same way, helping reduce the risk of stroke related to AFib.
For appropriately selected patients, the procedure may provide an alternative to taking blood-thinning medication long term.
Could Left Atrial Appendage Closure Be Right for You?
You may be evaluated for left atrial appendage closure if you:
- Have atrial fibrillation and an increased risk of stroke
- Need treatment to reduce your risk of AFib-related blood clots
- Cannot safely take blood thinners long term
- Have experienced bleeding or have a higher risk of serious bleeding while taking blood-thinning medication
- Have another medical reason your cardiologist recommends considering an alternative to long-term anticoagulation
Blood thinners remain an effective and appropriate treatment for many people with AFib. Your heart care team will review your health history, medications and individual stroke and bleeding risks to determine which approach is best for you.
Our Locations
Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital
5301 McAuley Dr
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital
200 Jefferson Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Trinity Health Heart & Vascular Center - Grand Rapids Hospital
200 Jefferson Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Trinity Health Heart and Vascular Testing - Grand Rapids Campus
310 Lafayette Ave SE Ste 310
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Why Choose Trinity Health Michigan for AFib Stroke Prevention?
Left atrial appendage closure requires careful planning and collaboration among several cardiovascular specialties.
At Trinity Health Michigan, your care may bring together:
- Electrophysiologists who specialize in heart rhythm conditions such as AFib
- Interventional cardiologists experienced in minimally invasive heart procedures
- Cardiovascular imaging specialists who help plan and guide your procedure
Our coordinated approach gives you access to comprehensive AFib care, from diagnosis and medication management to advanced procedures when additional treatment is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Left atrial appendage closure is designed to help reduce the risk of stroke associated with AFib. It does not correct the abnormal heart rhythm itself. Your cardiologist may recommend other treatments to manage your AFib symptoms or heart rhythm.
It may be an alternative to long-term blood-thinning medication for certain people with AFib. Blood thinners remain the standard stroke-prevention treatment for many patients, so your cardiologist will help determine which option is appropriate based on your individual risks and health needs.
You may need blood-thinning or antiplatelet medication temporarily after the procedure while your heart heals. Your care team will monitor your recovery and determine the appropriate medication plan for you.
Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure is a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure and does not require opening the chest.
The left atrial appendage is a small pouch connected to the upper left chamber of the heart. In people with AFib, blood can collect in this area and form clots that may increase the risk of stroke.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including your AFib diagnosis, stroke risk, bleeding risk, medical history and ability to take blood-thinning medications. A cardiovascular specialist can evaluate your individual situation and discuss your treatment options.