BigPatents India

A membrane(40) applied to the ostium (20) of an atrial appendage (13) is disclosed. The membrane (40) prevents blood clots (30) in the atrial appendage (13) from escaping therefrom and entering the blood stream which can result in a blocked blood vessel, leading to strokes and heart attacks. The membrane (40) may be permeable or impermeable with respect to blood flow. The membrane (40) is configured to extend over the ostium (20) of the left atrial appendage (13). The membrane (40) has an outer periphery with a dimension larger than a corresponding dimension of the ostium (20). Securement means is provided to secure the outer periphery of the membrane (40) in direct engagement with the atrial wall surrounding the ostium (20). The securement means may be located between the membrane (40) and the atrial wall, or the securement means may extend distally from the membrane (40) through the ostium (20). (FIG). 5