The Watchman Device for AFib

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common heart condition that affects millions of Americans. It is a type of irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and even heart failure. For many years, doctors have prescribed blood thinners like warfarin to reduce the risk of stroke in AFib patients. However, these medications can have serious side effects and may not be effective for everyone.

 

An Alternative to Blood Thinners

The Watchman Device is a new alternative to blood thinners that can reduce stroke risk in AFib patients without the use of medication. In this blog post, we will explore how the Watchman Device works and why it may be a good option for certain patients.

 

What is the Watchman Device?

The Watchman Device is a small implant that is placed in the heart to prevent blood clots from forming. It is designed for patients with AFib who are at risk of stroke but cannot take blood thinners due to side effects or other medical conditions.

 

How Does it Work?

The Watchman Device works by closing off a small part of the heart called the left atrial appendage. This is where blood clots commonly form in AFib patients. By sealing off this area, the Watchman Device can reduce the risk of stroke without the need for blood thinners.

 

Implantation

To implant the device, a surgeon will make a small incision in the groin and insert a catheter into the heart. The Watchman Device is then guided through the catheter and placed in the left atrial appendage. Over time, the device will form a barrier that prevents blood from pooling in this area and forming clots.

 

Benefits of the Watchman Device

One of the main benefits of the Watchman Device is that it can reduce the risk of stroke without the need for long-term blood thinners. This is especially important for patients who cannot tolerate these medications or who have a bleeding disorder. Additionally, the Watchman Device has been shown to be just as effective as blood thinners in preventing stroke.

 

Another benefit of the Watchman Device is that it can reduce the risk of bleeding associated with blood thinners. This is because the device does not thin the blood like medication does, but rather prevents blood clots from forming altogether. Many patients who receive the Watchman Device are able to discontinue blood thinner medications within a few months of the procedure.

 

Risks and Considerations

Like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with the Watchman Device. The most serious risk is the possibility of a blood clot forming on the device itself and causing a stroke. However, this risk is relatively low and can be minimized with proper care and monitoring.

 

Am I a Candidate?

It is also important to note that not all AFib patients are candidates for the Watchman Device. Your doctor will consider several factors when determining if the Watchman Device is right for you, including your age, overall health, and risk of stroke.

 

The Takeaway

If you have AFib and are at risk of stroke, the Watchman Device may be an effective alternative to blood thinners. It is a small implant that can reduce the risk of stroke without the need for medication. However, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine if the Watchman Device is right for you. If you are in the Tampa area and considering the Watchman Device, contact Tampa Cardiovascular Associates for more information. Our experienced cardiovascular surgeons can help you understand the benefits and risks of the procedure and determine if it is the right choice for you.

For more information please visit https://tampacardio.com/cardiovascular-health/watchman/

Give us a call at 813-975-2800 to schedule your consultation.