Our heart centre recently treated a patient with atrial fibrillation using the AmplatzerTM Cardiac Plug (St Jude Medical Inc). This is an alternative device to the Watchman® device (Boston Scientific) which we have been using over the past 2 years. We were privileged to have Professor YY Lam from Hong Kong help us with this procedure. This marks the first successful implant in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The availability of 2 treatment platforms in our centre allows more options for patients needing such therapies. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that predisposes patients to stroke. Besides anticoagulation, and surgery, left atrial appendage device closure is now offered to suitable patients as an alternative choice. This is especially important in patients experiencing difficulties with anticoagulation (such as those with high fall risks or bleeding risks).
Cardiac Plug
 
ostium to left atrial appendage After a successful closure |
