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Left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) implants

LAAO implants like the Watchman™ and Amulet™ offer an alternative to blood thinners, helping reduce stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation.

Understanding the LAAO procedure

Left atrial appendage occluder implants, such as the Watchman and Amulet devices, are used for patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition in which the upper chambers of your heart beat too fast. This condition can cause blood to pool and form a clot in an area of your heart called the left atrial appendage. The appendage is approximately the size of your thumb and looks like a small pouch on the top of your heart. If a clot forms in the left atrial appendage, it may increase your chances of having a stroke or other related problems.

LAAO implants provide a permanent, implant-based alternative to blood thinners for patients with AFib not caused by a heart valve problem. These devices act as a barrier to prevent left atrial appendage blood clots from entering the bloodstream and potentially causing a stroke.

Patient recieving an echocardiogram

What to expect

Understanding what comes next can help you feel more prepared. Here's what the LAAO process typically involves.

During the procedure, a catheter is placed in a blood vessel in your upper leg and guided into your heart to access the left atrial appendage. The LAAO device, either the Watchman or the Amulet, is delivered through the catheter and positioned to seal the opening of the left atrial appendage. Over time, your heart will form scar tissue over the device, sealing off the appendage and preventing clot formation.

Set up a consultation

To determine if the LAAO procedure is right for you, you'll meet with a physician from our LAAO team, who will order specific tests to assess your suitability for the procedure. 

You may need one or more of the following tests:

  • 3D transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): Takes very specific measurements and pictures of your left atrial appendage to determine its shape and size
  • CT angiogram of the chest: Imaging to obtain images of the left atrial appendage
  • Chest X-ray
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Checks your heart rate and rhythm
  • Blood tests
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