What is the primary purpose of performing a pre-procedural CT for LAAO?

The primary purpose of performing a pre-procedural CT for Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) is to determine the feasibility of the procedure. A pre-procedural CT provides critical imaging that allows clinicians to evaluate the anatomy of the left atrial appendage, including its size, shape, and any anatomical variations. This information is essential for planning the procedure effectively and ensuring that the chosen method or device will fit appropriately and perform as intended.

Understanding the anatomical landscape helps to assess potential challenges that may arise during the procedure and ensures that the intervention can be executed safely. Other choices, such as checking heart rate, administering anesthesia, or tracking blood pressure, do not directly relate to whether the LAAO procedure can be performed, making them less relevant in the context of pre-procedural imaging. Thus, determining feasibility is a key factor in the decision-making process leading up to LAAO.