Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Devices and Procedures

UAB Med Cast

Two devices for preventing blood clots are allowing many patients to stop taking blood thinners completely. The Amulet and the Watchman are both devices that allow doctors to perform left atrial appendage occlusion more safely than ever before. Tom McElderry, M.D., co-director of the Heart & Vascular Center, explains what has made these devices easier and faster to install, with complication rates well below 1%. He also discusses imaging technology that makes same-day procedures possible. Learn more about clinical trials related to these devices underway at UAB.