WATCHMAN™ Device

Cone Health HeartCare offers the WATCHMAN Device, an option for stroke risk reduction for those with AFib. 

What Is the WATCHMAN Device?

The WATCHMAN™ device is a small, parachute-shaped implant designed to reduce the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) not caused by a heart valve problem. AFib increases the risk of blood clots forming in a part of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). If these clots travel to the brain, they can cause a stroke. The WATCHMAN device seals off the LAA, preventing clots from entering the bloodstream and lowering stroke risk.

How Is the WATCHMAN Device Implanted?

  • The procedure is minimally invasive and typically takes less than one hour.
  • You will receive anesthesia, and your doctor will make a small incision in your upper leg to access a vein.
  • A narrow tube is guided through the vein to your heart, and the WATCHMAN device is delivered to the left atrial appendage using advanced imaging for precise placement.
  • Once in place, the device permanently seals off the LAA.

Who Is the WATCHMAN Device For?

The WATCHMAN device may be right for you if:

  • You have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem.
  • You are currently taking, or have considered taking, blood thinners.
  • You have reasons to seek an alternative to long-term blood thinners, such as a history of bleeding, lifestyle or occupational risks, or difficulty maintaining blood thinner therapy.

Recovery After WATCHMAN Implantation

  • Most patients stay in the hospital for about 24 hours and return home the next day.
  • You will be monitored overnight, and your care team will check the insertion site and your vital signs.
  • Bed rest is typically required for several hours after the procedure.
  • Your doctor will provide specific instructions for at-home recovery, including short-term activity restrictions and medications.
  • Over the weeks following the procedure, your doctor will gradually adjust your medications as appropriate.

Why Choose the WATCHMAN Device?

The WATCHMAN device offers a proven alternative to blood thinners for stroke prevention in eligible patients with AFib. It is a one-time, minimally invasive procedure that provides long-term protection, allowing many patients to reduce or stop blood thinner medications over time.

If you think the WATCHMAN device might be right for you, talk to your Cone Health cardiologist about your options and next steps.

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