If you have atrial fibrillation without a heart valve issue, then the Watchman Device may be right for you. It can reduce the risk of stroke in people with this condition. According to the American Heart Association, people with AFib are five times more prone to experiencing a stroke than those with a normal heartbeat.

The Watchman Device can help to prevent occurrences of stroke or heart attack.

Unlike blood thinners like Coumadin and Warfarin, the Watchman Device works by permanently closing off a portion of the heart that’s prone to blood clots. A clinical trial revealed that nearly all of the patients who got a Watchman Device were able to stop taking blood thinners within 45 days. This is a very important result because long-term use of these blood thinning drugs can lead to bleeding.

The Watchman Device has a proven track record of safety. In the US, 50,000 people have received it since 2015. It’s the only implant of its kind that’s fully approved by the FDA. For over 10 years, the device has been studied in the country.

Is the Watchman Device right for you?

You may be a candidate if you meet the following criteria:

-Your doctor has recommended that you take a blood thinner for AFib

-You have atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem

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

-You need an alternative to long-term blood thinners

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

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

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 or are taking blood thinners for a condition other than atrial fibrillation

Ready To Learn More?

Tampa Cardiovascular Associates’ very own Dr. Sawar M.D. performs Watchman Device implantations right in here 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.