Atrial flow regulator devices are used to create a communication between the top chambers (atria) of the heart. It is used to treat some patients with heart failure to reduce the pressure on the left side of the heart and therefore decrease breathlessness.
• The AFR procedure requires extensive palnning and investigation and is only suitable for a small select group of patients. Dr Hilling-Smith works in cunjunction with heart failure specialists to try to find exactly the right patient for this procedure.
• The procedure is done under general anaesthetic and you should expect to spend 2 nights in hospital. The procedure is done through a 3 mm tube in the top of the leg.
• After the procedure we may be able to adjust your heart failure medications but this is unlikely to be done straightaway.
• The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout.
• The closure device is inserted through a small 4 mm tube placed in a vein at the top of the leg. No surgical incision or cutting is required.
• While you are asleep, a specialised ultrasound camera called a trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is placed in the oesophagus to help guide the device into the correct position.
• The procedure typically takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.
• You will remain in hospital overnight following the LAAO procedure.
• It is common to experience a mild sore throat from the breathing tube and trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE), as well as some bruising at the groin access site.
• You will usually be prescribed gentle blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and clopidogrel, for approximately 6 weeks, together with a short course of antibiotics for one week.
• An echocardiogram will be performed the following morning to assess the position of the device, and most patients are able to return home around lunchtime.• You must not drive for 2 days after the procedure.
• Until your clinical review and follow-up echocardiogram at approximately 6 weeks, you should avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting (more than 10 kg), gym workouts and swimming.
• These restrictions help prevent strain on the chest and allow the device to settle securely into position during the healing process.
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