Is LAA Closure ready for prime time?
In this special report, learn about The Essentials of LAAC
Over the past two decades, left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has evolved from an innovative concept into an established therapy supported by robust clinical evidence. Initially developed for patients with contraindications to long-term anticoagulation, LAAC has matured alongside major advances in device technology, imaging, procedural techniques and operator experience. Contemporary implantation is now associated with a high success rate and a very low incidence of major procedural complications... Read more
Learning objectives
- To review the current evidence supporting LAAC for stroke prevention in AF
- To identify patient profiles who may benefit from LAAC in the evolving landscape of stroke prevention
- To understand key procedural principles and practical implantation techniques
- To interpret the clinical implications of the CHAMPION-AF trial comparing LAAC with DOAC therapy
- To anticipate how emerging evidence may reshape future guidelines and clinical practice
Table of Contents
In this article, Jens Erik Nielsen-Kudsk reviews the evolution of left atrial appendage closure, from early trials such as PROTECT‑AF to recent evidence including CHAMPION‑AF, and discusses its expanding role in stroke prevention for atrial fibrillation.
Martin Bergmann reviews the evolving evidence for LAAC, examining how recent landmark trials such as OPTION, CLOSURE‑AF and CHAMPION‑AF are reshaping patient selection and expanding the role of LAAC across a broader spectrum of patients with atrial fibrillation.
Ole De Backer shares key procedural insights and practical tips for safe and effective left atrial appendage closure, illustrated through the management of a patient with recurrent oesophageal variceal bleeding.
Tom De Potter explores the evolving role of LAAC, highlighting how recent evidence is reshaping stroke prevention strategies and expanding its place in the management of atrial fibrillation.
Marek Grygier reviews the rapidly evolving landscape of LAAC: from recent landmark trials such as OPTION and CHAMPION‑AF, to ongoing studies including SIMPLAAFY, CATALYST and LAAOS IV, he explores how emerging evidence is reshaping the role of device-based stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, with advances ranging from simplified post-procedural therapy to broader indications and combined strategies.
In this discussion, Saibal Kar and Philippe Garot review the implications of the CHAMPION-AF trial for the future of left atrial appendage closure. The study demonstrated that LAAC is non-inferior to NOACs for preventing stroke, systemic embolism and death, while significantly reducing long-term bleeding.
Hosted by Philippe Garot, this webinar brings together Martin Bergmann and Jens Erik Nielsen-Kudsk to explore current indications for LAAC and the impact of the CHAMPION-AF trial on clinical practice, illustrated with practical case examples.
This special report is available thanks to the support of Boston Scientific.
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