Evaluating a procedure to prevent strokes in older adults with atrial fibrillation and frailty

Utilization and Clinical Outcomes of Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Older Adults with Atrial Fibrillation and Frailty

NIH-funded research Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged · NIH-11117142

This study is looking at whether a procedure called left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) can help prevent strokes in older adults with atrial fibrillation who can't safely take blood thinners, to see if it's a good and safe option for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117142 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) as a method to prevent strokes in older adults who have atrial fibrillation and are considered frail. Many older adults are unable to take traditional blood thinners due to the risk of bleeding, making LAAO a potential alternative. The study aims to assess how effective and safe LAAO is compared to other treatment options for this vulnerable population. By analyzing patient outcomes, the research seeks to fill the gap in knowledge regarding the benefits of LAAO for those who are frail or ineligible for anticoagulants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have atrial fibrillation and exhibit signs of frailty.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who do not have atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer stroke prevention option for older adults with atrial fibrillation who cannot use traditional blood thinners.

How similar studies have performed: While LAAO has been studied in other populations, this specific focus on frail older adults is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.