Left atrial appendage closure device in atrial fibrillation.

The relationship of stroke and atrial fibrillation seems to become more complex as we gain more knowledge of the issue. Recent studies have questioned the temporal relationship between the two, which also questions causation. Left atrial appendage closure is an attractive, but unproven technology when compared with the 50-year experience with warfarin. In a patient who is on warfarin and having no issues with bleeding, medication intolerance, or lack of efficacy, it is difficult to justify stopping the drug and placing a closure device as sole therapy to prevent a stroke.