This case of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) with a Watchman device (Boston Scientific) demonstrates the advantages of using the ACUSON AcuNav Volume ICE Catheter over transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and 2D ICE.
An 87-year-old female with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was referred for LAAC. She received a contrast-enhanced preprocedural computed tomography (CT) scan to evaluate the LAA’s dimensions and anatomy. 4D ICE measurements (18.9 mm) of the LAA ostium correlated well with CT (18.2 mm). Since the patient could not tolerate long-term anticoagulation medication due to her condition, she underwent a Watchman procedure. Precise measurement of the landing zone pre-deployment and PASS (Position- Anchor-Size-Seal) criteria was performed using 4D ICE (ACUSON SC2000 PRIME ultrasound system, Siemens Healthineers).
The Watchman device was deployed with the 4D ICE catheter positioned in the mid left atrial view displaying multiplanar reconstruction imaging, rather than with multiple views using 2D ICE. Device implantation occurred under conscious sedation and was free from complications; the patient was discharged the same day.