Aegis’ Sierra Ligation System (Sierra) is a proprietary, minimally invasive solution for left atrial appendage (LAA) closure.

Sierra performs LAA closure in the closed pericardial space (the protective membrane surrounding the heart), through one small puncture through the skin of the chest. There are two main components to the Sierra Ligation System:  an appendage Stabilizer and a Ligating Device. The Stabilizer is used to find the LAA using fluoroscopic and ultrasound imaging, and by reading the ECG signals from the surface of the heart. Once the LAA is identified, the Stabilizer guides the Ligating Device to the appendage. The Ligating Device consists of a suture-like loop that gets positioned around the appendage. Once in place, the loop is cinched down and locked in place to stop blood flow to the LAA.

The Sierra Ligation System utilizes standard catheter lab diagnostic tools, fluoroscopy, and ultrasound – all of which are commonly used by electrophysiologists (EP) and interventional cardiologists (IC). Unlike other endocardial LAA closure devices, this epicardial device allows the physician to close the LAA quickly, and without entering the vascular system or the inside of the heart.

The Sierra Ligation System is an investigational device, not yet approved for commercial use.