Issue 5/2025
Dr. A. Kelchev MD
Head of the Department of Cardiac Surgery at Acibadem City Clinic Cardiovascular Center
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation is the most common persistent arrhythmia and remains the leading cause of ischemic stroke in the adult population. Over 90% of thrombi found in the left atrium in patients with atrial fibrillation originate from the left atrial appendage, which explains the clinical interest in its surgical isolation as a strategy for secondary prevention of thromboembolic events. In this context, the LAAOS III study, as well as the new 2024 guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology, which offer clear recommendations for the implementation of this intervention during open heart surgery, are of great importance.
Keywords: atrial fibrillation, left atrial appendage