Multiple Thromboembolic Events from a Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device

摘要

Left atrial appendage occlusion devices are an alternative to oral anticoagulation in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who are at risk of ischemic stroke. Thromboprophylaxis after implantation is recommended, but the optimal regimen is unknown. We report a clinicopathologic case in which thrombus adherent to an incompletely endothelialized WATCHMAN device (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA) resulted in multiple thromboembolic events, contributing to a fatal outcome. This case illustrates uncertainties regarding the device's endothelialization process.