Study limitations and future directions
Multiple limitations arise from a monocentric registry design including variation in implantation modality, post-discharge anticoagulation regimen and the difficulty to extrapolate to other centers or countries. Furthermore, since the registry dataset was primarily focused on LAAC results, other data were not prospectively collected (arrhythmias, rhythm at follow-up, or valvular outcomes) for the combined procedure and were assessed by chart review.
Additionally, since no independent image adjudication was used, all TEE measurements (LAA diameter, device size, compression, peri-device leak, and device thrombosis) are subject to operator interpretation and imaging system variability.