Are we too simple in planning complex structural interventions? The potential role of cardiac computed tomography to prepare for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure

Despite the fact that percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure has been performed for more than ten years1,2, there has only been little – and hesitant – evolution in the way we prepare for this procedure. As the LAA anatomy is highly variable and complex, accurate assessment of its structure is essential for a safe and successful procedure. Traditionally, imaging and sizing of the LAA has relied on transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). However, in parallel with the acceptance of cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) as the “gold standard” imaging tool to prepare for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), nowadays ...