Stroke protection without lifelong blood thinners.

Understanding the Watchman Device

• Purpose: Designed for AFib patients who can’t take long-term anticoagulants or who are at higher risk for bleeding.
• How It Works: Blocks the left atrial appendage, preventing clots from traveling to the brain and causing a stroke.
• Benefits: Permanent protection, reduced medication reliance, and improved quality of life.

The Procedure

• Minimally Invasive: Inserted through a small tube in a vein in the leg and guided to the heart.
• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay one night.
• Recovery: Short downtime with a gradual return to normal activities; follow-up tests ensure proper healing.

After the Implant

• Medication Transition: Patients may need short-term blood thinners until the heart tissue fully seals the device (typically 45 days).
• Monitoring: Regular check-ins with your healthcare team to ensure the device is functioning properly.
• Long-Term Results: Once fully sealed, many patients no longer need blood thinners, reducing bleeding risks.