[Catheter-based closure of the left atrial appendage : Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation].

In patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, >90 % of thrombi are detected in the left atrial appendage (LAA). In particular these observations have resulted in the development of catheter-based LAA closure as an approach for stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in recent years. A preliminary randomized trial provided promising data with respect to efficacy and safety of this approach as compared to anticoagulation with warfarin. The safety of the procedure has been significantly improved in recent years due to procedural experience and refinement of implanted devices. In current clinical practice, this approach is particularly used for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, a significant ischemic risk (CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2), and a high bleeding risk, i. e., in patients in whom there are relevant concerns with respect to long-term anticoagulation. The present article discusses the data from randomized clinical studies and registries, the present guideline recommendations, and the practical clinical use of LAA closure for stroke prevention.