Role of the Left Atrial Appendage in Systemic Homeostasis, Arrhythmogenesis, and Beyond.
Journal: Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics
Published:
Abstract
The left atrial appendage (LAA) affects body homeostasis via atrial natriuretic peptide and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and plays an important role in atrial compliance. Approximately 90% of clots in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) are formed in the LAA. AF is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and is frequently associated with stroke. Because anticoagulation for stroke prophylaxis carries a higher bleeding risk, LAA closure via epicardial and endocardial approaches has gained popularity and is being increasingly pursued for arrhythmogenic, homeostatic, and stroke-reduction benefits. This review discusses the homeostatic role of the LAA and its involvement in arrhythmogenesis and thrombus formation.
Authors
Ghulam Murtaza, Bharath Yarlagadda, Krishna Akella, Domenico Della Rocca, Rakesh Gopinathannair, Andrea Natale, Dhanunjaya Lakkireddy
Relevant Conditions