Vänsterförmaksutskottet

Vänsterförmaksutskottet, also known as the left atrial appendage (LAA), is a small, ear-shaped pouch that protrudes from the upper wall of the left atrium of the heart. It is a common anatomical structure in many mammals, including humans. The LAA is thought to be a remnant of embryonic development and its precise physiological function is not fully understood. However, it is known to expand and fill with blood during diastole, the relaxation phase of the heart cycle, when the left atrium is filling.

During atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, the electrical activity in the atria becomes disorganized, leading to rapid and irregular contractions. This can cause blood to pool and stagnate within the LAA, increasing the risk of clot formation. These clots can then travel through the bloodstream and potentially cause a stroke. Consequently, the LAA has become a significant focus in the management of atrial fibrillation, particularly for reducing the risk of thromboembolic events. Various strategies, including anticoagulant medication and interventional procedures to occlude the LAA, are employed to mitigate this risk.