GROSS ANATOMICAL FEATURES OF LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE

Left auricle has unique developmental, anatomical and physiological properties. The Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) lies within the fixed, relatively immobile confines of pericardium. Although in the past it has been considered to be a relatively insignificant portion of cardiac anatomy, it assumes great applied significance as it is a common site of thrombus formation, its dislodgement and its sequel in thromboembolic phenomenon including strokes. The left Atrial Appendage can be evaluated by Trans-Esophageal-Echocardiography, MRI and color Doppler techniques. Not much literature is available on morphology of LAA including its shape, lobulation and size. In the present study average length of LAA was 4cm, and maximum width was 1.2cm. The shape varied considerably with various conceivable shapes possible. The inferior margin showed lobulations. In some cases a well defined pouch was seen. The apex of left auricle in majority of the cases was kinked and turned inferiorly. Apex may be bifid showing finger like processes.