Watchman
More than 5 million Americans have atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common type of heart arrhythmia. This population is at an increased risk of stroke—in fact, one in three AFib patients is likely to have a stroke. To reduce this risk, AFib patients may need a blood-thinning medication such as warfarin or other anticoagulant. However, some patients who need blood thinners may not be able to take them because of a high risk of bleeding, which is when the Watchman Device may be an alternative.
The Watchman™ Left Arial Appendage Closure Device offers select patients with atrial fibrillation an alternative to warfarin to prevent a potentially life-threatening stroke. With the addition of this procedure, Saint Agnes continues to pave the way for outstanding cardiac care in the Central Valley.
How does the WATCHMAN work?
WATCHMAN is a permanent implant that offers an alternative to the lifelong use of blood thinners commonly used by Afib patients. Just like standard stent placement procedures, the device is inserted via a small incision in the upper leg and guided through the artery into the heart. Once placed, it expands to close off the left atrial appendage (LAA), where blood clots tend to form in people with Afib. Close to a quarter in size, the device works as the heart's very own 24/7 guard to keep blood clots from escaping into the body.
Benefits of WATCHMAN
The procedure is minimally invasive and most patients are able to return home the day after surgery. Thanks to the device's monitoring, 92% of patients are able to stop taking blood thinners (such as warfarin) just 45 days after the procedure, and 99% of patients are able to stop taking blood thinners within 1 year following their procedure.
Am I a candidate for WATCHMAN?
WATCHMAN is approved for patients suffering from non-valvular atrial fibrillation who have an increased risk of stroke based on CHADS or CHADSVASC scores, are deemed to be suitable for short term warfarin therapy (45 days) and have a valid reason (such as high bleeding risk or a medication intolerance) to seek a non-pharmacological alternative for their condition.
To take the WATCHMAN Assessment to see if WATCHMAN is right for you, click here.
Do you have signs of atrial fibrillation, which include:
- Heart palpitations
- Feeling of the heart racing or beating irregularly
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Tiredness
If you have been diagnosed with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and think you may be a candidate for Watchman, please call the Saint Agnes Structural Heart Clinic, (559) 450-3070.
To learn more about atrial fibrillation and WATCHMAN, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover WATCHMAN?
The WATCHMAN procedure is covered for Medicare beneficiaries who meet specific criteria. For a list of the criteria, click here.
How long have WATCHMAN implant procedures been performed?
The WATCHMAN device has been in use internationally since 2009 and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2015.
How long does the WATCHMAN device last?
This is a permanent implant.
What are the risks associated with the WATCHMAN device?
Most medical procedures have risks. Some severe risks include rupture of the LAA during implantation and infection at the site of entry. Ask your doctor to explain all risks to you.
How long will it take for the doctor to put in my new WATCHMAN device?
The procedure lasts about an hour.
Will I be awake when the put in my device?
No, the procedure is conducted under general anesthesia.
Why is the WATCHMAN implant procedure considered minimally invasive?
The doctor only needs to make a small incision in your upper leg and insert a narrow tube (as done in a standard stent procedure) to complete the implant, keeping wound site and overall recovery minimal.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after my implant procedure?
Most patients stay overnight and are able to return home the next day.
Will I need to take blood thinners?
Following your procedure, you will take warfarin for 45 days or until your LAA is permanently closed off. Your doctor will monitor your progress and decide when you are ready to stop taking blood thinners.
Are there other medical restrictions?
Your doctor will tell you what you can and cannot do now that you have the device implanted.