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Left atrial appendageLeft atrial appendage - DefinitionLeft atrial appendage (LAA) is a muscular pouch or sac that is affixed to the left atrium of the human heart. Sometimes, it is also referred to as the ‘left auricle’ – a term that was earlier used to refer to the left atrium.
Left atrial appendage - AnatomyThis cardiac structure looks like a windsock. It lies near the left ventricle, which is an unfastened cardiac chamber wall.
Left atrial appendage - FunctionThe structure acts like a reservoir for the cardiac region known as the left atrium. It is one of the most important organs of the endocrine system and is primarily responsible for the supply of ANP (Atrial natriuretic Peptide) within the heart. It is also an organ that mediates thirst. In the absence of this structure, humans become thirsty and have a high risk of getting dehydrated.
Surgeons find the structure useful for performing an operative procedure known as mitral valve surgery. In atrial fibrillation, the risks of stroke can be avoided by a closure of this organ. Left atrial appendage - PicturesThese images would prove useful to you in understanding the visual appearance of this cardiac structure.
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