Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure Devices for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation

This policy covers percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) devices (eg, Watchman, Amplatzer Amulet) for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation who have elevated thromboembolic risk (eg, CHA2DS2‑VASc ≥2) and in whom long‑term systemic anticoagulation is recommended but the risks of anticoagulation are deemed to outweigh the risks of device implantation. Coverage is limited to FDA‑approved devices used per the policy's specific criteria and the member's benefit plan; non‑approved or unlisted devices (eg, Lariat, Amplatzer Cardiac Plug) are considered experimental/investigational, and anticoagulation remains the primary therapy with bleeding-risk assessment (eg, HAS‑BLED) required to guide management.

"Use of percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure devices for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation."

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