Increased Use of Oversized Watchman Devices For LAAO Reveals Less Risk of Significant Leak, Device Embolization: NCDR Study

The use of oversized devices for patients receiving the first-generation Watchman device while undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) has increased over time, according to a study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions. The practice was associated with less risk of significant leak or device embolization and no greater risk of other adverse events.

Prospective Study Characterizes Myocardial Damage Post COVID-19 Hospitalization

Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and high cardiac troponin levels had more ventricular impairment and myocardial scarring in the early stages of recovery compared with patients without the virus, according to a study published in Circulation. However, the number of cases of myocarditis was low and the cause of the scarring was varied, including a newly identified pattern of microinfarction.