If you have Atrial Fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem the Watchman Device might be right for you. This device is intended to decrease the risk of stroke in certain individuals. A patient with AFib is 5 times more likely to suffer a stroke than someone with a normal regulated heartbeat.

It works differently from blood thinners like Warfarin and Coumadin. The Watchman is a permanently implanted device that closes off an area of the heart where blood clots commonly form.

In a clinical trial, 9 out of 10 people were able to stop taking their blood thinning medication just 45 days after getting one implanted. At the one year mark, 99 out of 100 people were able to stop taking warfarin. This is important as long term use of blood thinners also presents a major risk of bleeding whereas the device does not.

This device has a proven record of safety throughout the world. Currently, 50,000 people have received the Watchman Implant. The Watchman has been clinically studied for over 10 years in the United States alone. It is to date the only implant of its kind fully approved by the FDA.

Is the Watchman Device right for you?

You may be a candidate depending on the following criteria:

-Has your doctor recommended that you take a blood thinner for your AFib?

-Do you have atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem?

-You have a history of serious bleeding while taking blood thinners

-Can you take warfarin but need an alternative to long-term blood thinners for one of the reasons below?

-You have a lifestyle, occupation, or condition that puts you at risk for serious bleeding

-You’re taking warfarin and having trouble with your treatment plan, and a different type of blood thinner isn’t an option for you.

If you feel like this describes you, then talk to your cardiologist or come in for an appointment at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates.

Those who SHOULD NOT receive the WATCHMAN Implant include but are not limited to those who:

-Cannot take warfarin (Coumadin®), aspirin, or clopidogrel (Plavix®)

-Should not or cannot undergo heart catheterization procedures

-Have an allergy or sensitivity to nitinol (nickel and titanium)

-Have a left atrial appendage that does not fit the WATCHMAN Implant Are taking blood thinners for a condition other than atrial fibrillation

Ready To Learn More?

Tampa Cardiovascular Associates’ very own Dr. Sawar performs the Watchman implantation right in Tampa, Florida. If you believe you might be a candidate and would like to learn more we invite you to call our office and make an appointment for a consultation. 813-975-2800. www.tampacardio.com.