Scientific publications

Left atrial appendage occlusion by invagination and double suture technique. Scientific Publication

Jun 17, 2011 | Magazine: European Journal of Cardio-thoracic Surgery

Hernandez-Estefania R, Praschker BL, Bastarrika G, Rabago G.


Left atrial appendage (LAA) plays a crucial role as a source of atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Thus, the need to close LAA becomes evident in patients with AF who undergo concomitant mitral valve surgery. Unfortunately, it has been reported a high rate of unsuccessful LAA occlusion, regardless of the technique employed.

We propose a safe and simple method for LAA occlusion consisting in invagination of the appendage into the left atrium, followed by two sutures (purse string suture around the base of the LAA and a reinforce running suture).

CITATION  Eur J Cardiothorac Surg. 2011 Jun 17