Watchman™

Overview

Watchman™ is a one-time procedure to reduce stroke risk for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem. This alternative to blood thinners is a left atrial appendage closure implant.

How It Works

• Under general anesthesia, small cut made into upper leg with a narrow tube inserted, as in a standard stent procedure
• The doctor guides the watchman into your heart’s left atrial appendage
• Following implant heart tissue grows over Watchman, permanently closing off the left atrial appendage to keep blood clots from escaping.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of stroke
• Small incision
• Brief recovery time
• Elimination of bleeding risks and regular blood tests and food and drink restrictions that come with taking warfarin