What is the primary purpose of a Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) device?

The primary purpose of a Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) device is to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with non-rheumatic atrial fibrillation. Patients with this type of atrial fibrillation often have a stagnant blood flow in the left atrial appendage, which can lead to the formation of thrombi (blood clots). These clots can potentially dislodge and travel to the brain, causing a stroke.

The LAAO device works by physically blocking the left atrial appendage, thereby reducing the chance of clot formation and subsequent embolic events. This intervention is particularly significant for patients who are unable to take long-term anticoagulant therapy due to risk of bleeding or other contraindications. Therefore, using the LAAO device directly addresses the underlying mechanism associated with stroke risk in this patient population.

In contrast, enhancing cardiac output in heart failure patients focuses on different therapies aimed specifically at improving heart function. Assisting in the closure of a patent foramen ovale pertains to a different anatomical concern and is not related to the LAAO procedure. Preventing arrhythmias in patients with heart murmurs addresses issues distinct from the stroke risk associated with atrial fibrillation, as arrhythmias