Left Atrial Appendage Closure

What is a Left Atrial Appendage Closure?

A left atrial appendage (LLA) closure can prevent strokes caused by an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation. UR Medicine performs the procedure to reduce stroke risk in non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients. With the closure procedure, strokes can be prevented without the lifelong use of blood thinners.

This procedure is suitable for patients with:

Difficulty staying within the therapeutic range of Warfarin/Coumadin
Previous internal bleeding or high risk of bleeding
Intolerant to or difficulty taking blood thinners
High risk of falling
Severe renal failure
Occupational or lifestyle related high bleeding risk

There may be other conditions that make appendage closure an optimal therapy and can be reviewed with you by the clinical team.

Do you have symptoms or have been diagnosed with structural heart disease?

Call (585) 276-6339

UR Medicine's Approach

The appendage closure device is implanted into the patient’s left atrial appendage (part of the top left area of the heart) through a minimally invasive procedure. The device is then expanded to close off the left atrial appendage and keep blood clots from escaping.

We perform the procedure at Strong Memorial Hospital. You may stay overnight or go home the same day.

We offer two different LAA devices, the Boston Scientific Watchman device and the Abbott Amulet device, which helps us tailor our choice to each patient.

Video: Animation of the Boston Scientific WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Device implant

Video: A patient's guide to Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Risk Reduction - Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage Occluder

What Sets Us Apart?

UR Medicine’s Strong Memorial Hospital was first in the region to offer people this minimally invasive therapy for atrial fibrillation.

UR Medicine has a rich history of leadership in heart care and the largest team of cardiologists providing comprehensive care in Rochester and throughout the Finger Lakes region. Our multidisciplinary team includes cardiologists, echocardiologists, electrophysiologists, and nurses who work with you to create a personalized plan that helps you reach your goals.

Using a collaborative, team-based approach, UR Medicine Cardiac Care offers advanced technology and procedures, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement, mechanical assist devices and heart transplantation.