What are the primary complications associated with LAAO procedures?

The primary complications associated with Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) procedures often include pericardial effusion, thrombus formation, and device-related complications.

Pericardial effusion can occur due to trauma during the procedure, which may lead to bleeding into the pericardial space. This accumulation of fluid can impair heart function and may require further intervention, such as drainage.

Thrombus formation is a significant risk in any procedure involving the heart, especially when the heart's blood flow is altered. In the context of LAAO, if a thrombus develops on or around the device, it can potentially lead to embolic events, including stroke, thus negating the procedure's primary purpose.

Device-related complications can include issues like device migration, improper deployment, or erroneous positioning, all of which can compromise the effectiveness of the closure and may necessitate additional procedures to correct.

These complications highlight the importance of careful patient selection, thorough procedural technique, and close postoperative monitoring to mitigate risks associated with LAAO procedures.