Left atrial appendage closure devices are primarily used as

• A. Primarily used to restore sinus rhythm.
• B. A noninvasive imaging modality for stroke risk assessment.
• C. Alternatives to anticoagulation for stroke prevention in patients who cannot take anticoagulants.
• D. A pacing strategy for tachyarrhythmias.

Answer: (C)

Left atrial appendage closure devices provide a mechanical way to prevent stroke in atrial fibrillation by sealing off the left atrial appendage, the area where most AF-related clots form. By occluding this site, they reduce the chance that a thrombus will enter the bloodstream and cause an embolic stroke, making them an alternative to long-term anticoagulation for patients who cannot take anticoagulants. They’re not used to restore normal rhythm, not an imaging tool, and not a pacing strategy. While they aim to spare patients from ongoing anticoagulation, short-term antithrombotic therapy may be used after device implantation.