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EP evaluation of persistent AFIB
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: 1 hour ago | Replies (21)Comment receiving replies
@keepthebeat
A dental infection caused my heart valve problem which caused my afib. The terrific surgeon I had, repaired my heart valve, did the ablation, and also closed my left atrial appendage, a worrisome area for blood clots occurring. The plan was to get all three taken care of in one fell swoop. We are all different but that worked out very well in my case. Additionally, I'm not a doctor, but I've often wondered why closure of the left atrial appendage is not done along with every ablation, where the patient is a candidate for that particular closure. Just a thought.
Regards,
Sagan
Replies to "@keepthebeat A dental infection caused my heart valve problem which caused my afib. The terrific surgeon..."
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@saganjames I see your point, and for me it would/should be protocol that all EPs discuss the ramifications of leaving the LAA open vs closed, not needing a DOAC if it checks out fully closed at the 6-month TEE mark, reducing the risk of stroke with an occluded LAA vs relying on a DOAC with its risk of serious bleeding, and so on. My hope is that this is done and that some opt not to have it (probably from being surprised with the topic's introduction as they sit there on their first visit not having done some homework about AF and it's associated issues, including the risk of leaving the LAA open). But, as a lifelong learner and educator, I try hard to remember all the pertinent and possible outcomes or potential problems with any action or intervention, and discussing the LAA's risks for AF sufferers would be high on the list. Why not a one 'n done approach while the body is on the slab right before them and open or otherwise catheterized, ready for the job(s)?