Three-dimensional assessment of left atrial appendage orifice geometry and potential implications for device closure

Int J Cardiovasc Imaging. 2014 Apr;30(4):819-23. doi: 10.1007/s10554-014-0393-0. Epub 2014 Mar 6.

Abstract

Transcatheter placement of left atrial closure device is an attractive therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), to avoid anticoagulation and reduce cerebrovascular events; however peri-device leaks occur. The geometry of the left atrial appendage (LAA) is not well understood, largely owing to limitations of 2-dimensional imaging techniques. We sought to better define the LAA orifice geometry, by performing 3-dimensional multi-detector computed tomography measurements. We prospectively recruited 105 consecutive patients referred for pulmonary vein ablation (PVA) and age-matched controls. Area, short and long-axis measurements were performed. Eccentricity was calculated as 1-(short axis/long axis). Multiple clinical variables were tested for their ability to predict appendage orifice eccentricity using univariate linear regression models. The PVA cohort demographics included; 25 (24%) females, mean age 59 years (SD = 10), median height (1.55-2.03), weight 89 (56-139) kg and body surface area 2.1 (1.61-2.58). In the PVA cohort, there was a significant difference between the long and short-axis; median short-axis dimension was 20.5 (12.9-35.4) mm, versus long-axis median 30.4 (17.7-43.8) (p < 0.001). Mean eccentricity score was 0.4. When compared with controls, there was a significant difference in the short and long-axis measurements (p < 0.001) as well as eccentricity (p = 0.04). All clinical variables tested showed limited ability to predict appendage eccentricity (p = NS). LAA ostium is an elliptical structure in the setting of AF with a high eccentricity index and uniformly significant differences between short and long-axis. There were significant differences between these parameters when compared with controls. A deeper appreciation of LAA geometry and eccentricity may allow for reduction in peri-closure leaks.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Atrial Appendage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications
  • Atrial Fibrillation / diagnostic imaging*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy*
  • Cardiac Catheterization / instrumentation*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / etiology
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multidetector Computed Tomography / methods*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prospective Studies
  • Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted*