Nonthrombogenic Roles of the Left Atrial Appendage: JACC Review Topic of the Week

J Am Coll Cardiol. 2023 Mar 21;81(11):1063-1075. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.01.017.

Abstract

The atrial appendage (LAA) is a well-established source of cardioembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. Therefore, research involving the LAA has largely focused on its thrombogenic attribute and the utility of its exclusion in stroke prevention. However, recent studies have highlighted several novel functions of the LAA that may have important therapeutic implications. In this paper, we provide a concise overview of the LAA anatomy and summarize the emerging data on its nonthrombogenic roles.

Keywords: atrial fibrillation; hemodynamics; left atrial appendage; progenitor cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Appendage* / diagnostic imaging
  • Atrial Appendage* / surgery
  • Atrial Fibrillation*
  • Humans
  • Stroke* / etiology
  • Stroke* / prevention & control