Which type of anesthesia is commonly used during LAAO procedures?

During LAAO procedures, conscious sedation or general anesthesia is commonly utilized to enhance patient comfort and cooperation while ensuring adequate safety and monitoring. Conscious sedation allows patients to maintain some level of awareness while being relaxed and somewhat unaware of the procedure, which can ease anxiety. In some cases, general anesthesia may be preferred to ensure the patient is completely unconscious and unable to respond to stimuli, particularly in procedures that may cause discomfort or anxiety.

Using conscious sedation or general anesthesia aligns with the procedural requirements of LAAO, as it involves intricate manipulations within the heart and may necessitate the patient to remain still and comfortable throughout the intervention. This approach also facilitates better monitoring of the patient's vital signs and physiological responses during the procedure, contributing to overall safety and effectiveness.