Work

Left Atrial Appendage Aneurysm and Atrial Fibrillation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Left atrial appendage aneurysm is a rare clinical entity that may cause arrhythmias and thromboembolism. CASE SUMMARY: We present the case of a 36-year-old man with atrial fibrillation and left atrial appendage aneurysm the size of 60 × 40 mm, who underwent surgery with aneurysmectomy and concomitant cryoablation (Cox-Maze IV). The patient had transient episodes of atrial flutter postoperatively, but otherwise an uneventful postoperative course and made a good recovery. DISCUSSION: This case demonstrates the benefits of concomitant aneurysmectomy and surgical ablation in patients with left atrial appendage aneurysm and atrial fibrillation. It reinforces the need for individualized management and supports the use of adjunct surgical ablation in appropriately selected patients. TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: Left atrial appendage aneurysm is strongly associated with atrial arrhythmias and thromboembolism. Although surgery with resection and ablation is beneficial, long-term rhythm surveillance and research are required to better define arrhythmia mechanisms in these patients.

Source: JACC Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2026.109085

Authors: Angiza Shahim, Peter Kostic, Erik Björklund, Anders Albåge

Institutions: Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University

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