What are the considerations for patients with AF undergoing cardiac surgery?
In patients with AF at high risk of ischemic stroke who have absolute contraindications for OAC, it is suggested to use LAA occlusion. In AF patients at risk of ischemic stroke undergoing cardiac surgery, it is suggested to consider surgical exclusion of the LAA for stroke prevention, but the need for long-term OAC is unchanged. When taking into account LAAO as a potential option, the risk of bleeding related to antiplatelets agents that need to be prescribed in the first months has to be considered and the possibility to use NOACs.