Intracardiac Versus Transesophageal Echocardiographic Guidance for Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

This trial compares two imaging methods used to guide a procedure that closes off a small pouch in the heart (left atrial appendage) where blood clots can form in people with irregular heartbeats (atrial fibrillation). One method uses a probe placed in the esophagus (transesophageal), and the other uses a tiny camera inserted directly into the heart (intracardiac). The device closure is an alternative for people who cannot take blood thinners long-term. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have been diagnosed with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm not caused by a faulty heart valve) - You are at high risk for stroke (CHADS2 score of 2 or higher, or CHA2DS2-VASc score of 3 or higher) - You have a medical reason to avoid long-term blood thinners and are a suitable candidate for the closure device **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a blood clot already present in the left atrial appendage - You cannot safely undergo either imaging method - You have active infection or a condition making this procedure too risky Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.