Many AFib patients are prescribed anti-coagulant medication (blood thinners such as Warfarin) to help with stroke risk by reducing the occurrence of blood clots. While medications are effective for many patients, long-term drug therapy is not well tolerated by some, highlighting the need for additional treatment options. For eligible patients who are seeking an alternative to medication, the WATCHMAN™ offers a stroke risk treatment option that could free them from the challenges of long-term drug therapy.
WATCHMAN is implanted during a minimally invasive procedure and is designed to close the left atrial appendage (LAA) to prevent migration of blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism. The implant procedure usually lasts about an hour and your hospital stay is around 24 hours.
The WATCHMAN device might be a good choice if you:
Talk to your doctor about your options to see if the WATCHMAN is right for you.