Left atrial appendage

General Information
Latin	Auricula sinistra
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Cardiovascular system
Artery	Left atrial artery
Vein	Left atrial vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a small, ear-shaped muscular pouch connected to the left atrium of the heart. It is an important anatomical structure with significant clinical implications, particularly in the context of atrial fibrillation and stroke risk.

Anatomy

The left atrial appendage is located on the anterior surface of the left atrium, near the base of the left pulmonary veins. It is a remnant of the embryonic left atrium and varies in size and shape among individuals. The LAA is lined with pectinate muscles, which are more prominent in the appendage than in the rest of the left atrium.

Function

The primary function of the left atrial appendage is not entirely clear, but it is thought to play a role in modulating cardiac output and blood pressure. It may also act as a reservoir for blood during the cardiac cycle.

Clinical Significance

The left atrial appendage is clinically significant due to its association with thrombus formation in patients with atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the irregular heart rhythm can lead to blood stasis in the LAA, increasing the risk of thromboembolism. This can result in ischemic stroke if a thrombus dislodges and travels to the brain.

Management

Management strategies for reducing stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation often involve anticoagulation therapy. In some cases, surgical or percutaneous procedures may be performed to occlude or remove the left atrial appendage, thereby reducing the risk of thrombus formation.

See Also

• Atrial fibrillation
• Stroke
• Cardiac anatomy

External Links

• [Link to relevant medical resources]