The Watchman Device
The Watchman is a medical device used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. It is a small, implantable device designed to occlude or seal off the left atrial appendage, a small pouch in the heart where blood clots can form and potentially lead to a stroke. The Watchman device is implanted via a minimally invasive procedure, usually through a catheter inserted into a vein in the leg. By closing off this area, the device helps prevent the formation of clots that could travel to the brain. It is typically considered for patients who are unable to take long-term blood thinners or those who need an alternative to anticoagulant therapy. If you feel as though you are a good candidate for Watchman please discuss with your cardiologist.