Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion and the Risk of Thromboembolic Events Following Mitral Valve Surgery

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery with respect to thromboembolic events. Background: LAA is the predominant source of emboli in patients with atrial fibrillation. Prophylactic LAA exclusion at the time of heart surgery has been recommended to reduce the risk of future thromboembolism. Methods: An observational cohort of 136 patients undergoing LAA exclusion during...