LAL is a new approach that uses the breakthrough AtriClip® System to reduce stroke risk for atrial fibrillation patients.
When you choose UPMC in Central Pa. for your LAL procedure, you will receive expert care from some of the region's most experienced cardiovascular surgeons. Our surgeons use the latest, most effective methods to perform LAL procedures and are pioneers in the use of the AtriClip System in clinical trials.
The most serious risk from atrial fibrillation (A-fib) is thromboembolic stroke. The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a pouch-like extension of the left atrium of your heart. It is about the size of your thumb with a narrow opening into your left atrium.
If you have A-fib, blood can pool and form clots in your LAA. If a blood clot breaks loose it may travel through your blood vessels and eventually plug a smaller vessel in your brain or heart, causing a stroke.
Left atrial appendage ligation is a procedure used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with A-fib. During LAL, your LAA is permanently sealed off from the rest of your heart. This prevents blood from circulating through and pooling in your LAA and causing clots, potentially decreasing your risk of stroke.
During your LAL, your will be under general anesthesia. Your doctor will apply the AtriClip to the outside surface of your LAA. The AtriClip will permanently close off your LAA at its base and prevent blood from circulating through and pooling in the appendage.
You will be taken to the recovery room for observation or returned to your hospital room where a nurse will monitor your vital signs. You will need to spend at least one night (possibly more) in the hospital so your health care team can monitor your condition. You should arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital after you are discharged.
Your doctor will let you know when you can return to your normal activities and will schedule you for a follow-up appointment after your procedure.
Call the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at 717-231-8555.
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Located at Brady Building
205 South Front Street
4th floor
Harrisburg, PA 17104
Phone: 717-231-8555
Fax: 717-231-8568
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