Work

Left Atrial Appendage Membrane in a Patient Presenting With Atrial Fibrillation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Left atrial appendage (LAA) membranes are rare congenital anomalies of uncertain clinical significance, often discovered incidentally during imaging or interventional procedures. CASE SUMMARY: A 50-year-old man with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation presented for LAA occlusion device implantation and atrial fibrillation ablation. Transesophageal and intracardiac echocardiography revealed a membrane completely occluding the LAA ostium, as confirmed by Doppler imaging, fluoroscopy, and electroanatomical mapping. No LAA occlusion device was implanted, but AF ablation was successfully performed. The patient was in sinus rhythm and was asymptomatic at follow-up. DISCUSSION: A total of 13 cases of LAA membranes have been reported in the literature. Their relationship with atrial arrhythmias and thromboembolism remains unclear. This case demonstrates the use of electroanatomical mapping to confirm the atrial myocardial characteristics of the membrane. TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: Anatomic variants such as LAA membranes underscore the importance of advanced imaging and mapping to ensure procedural safety and success in complex cardiac interventions.

Source: JACC Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2025.103403

Authors: Ryan Lee, Aamir Twing, Satish Mishra, Zaki Al-Yafeai, James Russell, Dana Johnson

Institution: University of Illinois Chicago

Language: English

Topic: Atrial Fibrillation Management and Outcomes

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $850