Transcatheter patch occlusion of the left atrial appendage using surgical adhesives in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation.

OBJECTIVES The efficacy of left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion using the Transcatheter Patch (TP) (Custom Medical Devices, Athens, Greece) in conjunction with surgical adhesives was assessed. BACKGROUND The TP is a bioabsorbable device that can be adjusted for the shape and size of the LAA without the risk of perforation. It is attached by a surgical adhesive and is released in 45 min. METHODS Occlusion of the LAA was performed in 20 high-risk patients, 59 to 89 years of age, with atrial fibrillation. A 2-stage polyethylene glycol surgical adhesive was applied to the distal half of the device. Activation of the adhesive was achieved by direct injection of alkaline solution. Fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography only were used for device placement in 17 patients. In 3 patients, angiography was used as well. Follow-up transesophageal echocardiography was performed upon discharge. RESULTS The procedure was successful in 17 cases. In the 3 patients in whom angiography was performed, the patch did not attach and was retrieved. In 1 case, the patch was placed beyond the mouth of the appendage, resulting in a residual opening. There was further improvement of the occlusion rate on the follow-up transesophageal echocardiography. There was 1 complication related to the procedure, namely, thrombus was released from the long sheath in the left atrium upon withdrawal and required treatment to be dissolved. No recurrent strokes were reported. CONCLUSIONS Occlusion of the LAA by the TP is feasible and effective in most patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk for embolic stroke. Angiography before placement probably affects patch adhesion and is contraindicated.