KAPP -Left Atrial Appendage Clamp
Efficacy - eliminates the LA appendage as locus for clot formation in patients with atrial fibrillation – removes the necessity for and risks of routine anticoagulation for a-fib. May be used prophylactically during any cardiac procedure where there is access to the LA appendage for those patients not yet in a-fib to eliminate future need for anticoagulation should a-fib develop. Ease of use – placed in ideal location at the base of the LA appendage during routine open heart surgery without adding significantly to length of operation – applied in under five minutes. One piece construction of a surgically approved metal alloy. Atraumatic design without teeth to eliminate bleeding.
Sewing cuff surrounding the clamp allows anchoring sutures to be placed anywhere along cuff for secure placement in each patient. Multiple sizes to accommodate varied anatomy. Elimination of flow into LA appendage, easily documented during routine intraoperative TEE (transesophageal echo). Clamp is detectable on routine CXR.