Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage (LAA)
Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Occluder, a minimally invasive therapy to treat people in the U.S. with atrial fibrillation (AFib) who are at risk of ischemic stroke. This latest advancement from Abbott – a leading manufacturer of innovative and life-changing structural heart solutions – completely and immediately seals the LAA, eliminating the need for blood-thinning medication following the procedure.
AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat out of coordination with the lower chambers (ventricles) and contract rapidly and irregularly. In some people with AFib, the LAA – a small, naturally occurring pocket connected to the upper left chamber of the heart – can allow blood to pool and increase the likelihood of a clot formation, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. For patients with AFib who are unable to take blood thinners long-term, physicians may perform procedures to prevent blood clots from leaving the LAA to reduce the risk of stroke.
The Amulet device with dual seal technology and more sizing options gives an immediate and complete closure of difficult left atrial appendage anatomy that we were unable to close previously without the need for short term or long-term anticoagulation, especially helpful in patients who cannot take blood thinners because of bleeding issues.
The use of Abbott's Amulet device provides a treatment option that reduces the risk of stroke and eliminates the need for blood-thinning medication immediately after the procedure, which is incredibly valuable given the bleeding risks associated with these medicines. The minimally invasive Amulet procedure reduces stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation will help people live better lives through better health. Who benefits from the procedure? Patients with multiple comorbidities and concerns about drug interactions, patients with adherence or compliance issues, patients with daily activities that increase bleeding risks, patients with a history of falls and a high risk of bleeding, and lastly patients with a contraindication to oral anticoagulants such as patients with poorly controlled or uncontrolled hypertension.
Speak to your Primary Care Physician or Cardiologist if you feel you may benefit from this procedure.