Surgical PA-LAA Shunting: a Feasibility Study

Atrial fibrillation is common and increases the risk of stroke. Traditionally patients are treated with blood thinning medications or at the time of surgery the part of the heart where blood clots form is cut out. Surgically cutting out the left atrial appendage can be difficult and complications can occur. An alternative strategy is to create a tunnel to increase blood flow and wash out the part of the heart where clots form. This strategy has not been previously studied. The purpose of this study is to determine if creating a tunnel to increase blood flow is feasible and safe.