The National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) is an American College of Cardiology (ACC) program that uses clinical data to help healthcare organizations evaluate and improve cardiovascular care. Through standardized data collection, performance reporting, and research, NCDR supports patient safety, evidence-based practice, and continuous quality improvement. Its registries allow participating institutions to assess their outcomes and compare performance with national benchmarks.
The LAAO Registry is the NCDR registry dedicated to evaluating care and outcomes for patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion, a procedure used to reduce stroke risk in appropriately selected patients with atrial fibrillation. By collecting information from everyday clinical practice, the registry helps clinicians understand procedural outcomes, short- and long-term safety, and the effectiveness of LAAO treatment.
Participating hospitals submit standardized information about patient characteristics, procedures, and follow-up outcomes. Important events tracked include stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), systemic embolism, major bleeding, device-related complications such as device thrombosis, and mortality. Monitoring these outcomes helps evaluate both immediate procedural safety and longer-term results.
Accurate documentation and timely follow-up are essential components of registry participation. Hospitals collect follow-up data at 45 days, six months, one year, and two years after the procedure. These assessments support ongoing evaluation of patient outcomes and adverse events. Registry reporting intervals are distinct from an individual patient’s clinical testing schedule; follow-up testing and imaging are determined by the treating provider and applicable clinical protocols.
The LAAO Registry is approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to meet the national registry requirements for covered percutaneous left atrial appendage closure procedures. Registry participation supports this component of Medicare coverage, while other patient, provider, and facility requirements must also be satisfied.
The registry’s broader purpose is to turn clinical information into opportunities for better care. National benchmarking, performance feedback, and registry-based research help participating programs identify areas for improvement, evaluate treatment strategies, and strengthen the quality and safety of LAAO services.