UTILIZATION OF LEFT ATRIAL AURICLE OCCLUDERS IN PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION FOR THE PREVENTION OF THROMBOEMBOLIC COMPLICATIONS: A COMPREHENSIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Occlusion of the auricle of the left atrium is a nondrug method for the prevention of cardioembolic complications in patients with atrial fibrillation. The authors point out that due to the high prevalence of AF in the world and Russia, the number of patients who need anticoagulant therapy but have limitations in its use is constantly increasing. Objective. To study the role of left atrium auricle occluders in the prevention of systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Materials and Methods. The review is based on an analysis of data from PubMed and Google Scholar databases over the past 5 years. Conclusions. Basic therapy for atrial fibrillation includes anticoagulants, but their use is limited by contraindications, which makes nondrug prophylaxis relevant. There are methods of excision (removal of the eyelet with suturing) and occlusion (exclusion from the bloodstream without removal), and the latter are preferable: they are safer, less complicated, and easier to perform. The most common method of installing occlusion devices, such as the Watchman and Amplatzer occluders, have proven themselves to have an extensive evidence base. More studies are needed to confirm the clinical significance of left atrium auricle occlusion through large randomized trials with clear surgical and anticoagulant protocols.