Watchman Specialist

What is the WATCHMAN™ device?

The WATCHMAN is an implantable medical device that prevents blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a potentially serious condition that causes your heart to beat rapidly. Without intervention and treatment, it increases your risk of a heart attack or a stroke.

The WATCHMAN provides a safe and effective alternative to traditional medications like warfarin. Though effective, warfarin presents various side effects that are uncomfortable and often challenging to deal with. The WATCHMAN makes treatment easier, and studies show it’s equally effective at preventing cardiovascular events.

How does the WATCHMAN device work?

If you have atrial fibrillation (A-fib), you’re also more likely to experience blood clots. The majority of these blood clots form in the left atrial appendage (LAA) and then travel through your bloodstream.

The WATCHMAN device is a piece of medical equipment that your Heart Care Centers of Florida provider inserts into your LAA. Once placed, it closes off your LAA, preventing blood clots from entering your bloodstream.

Clinical studies show that the WATCHMAN offers the same type of stroke protection as traditional blood-thinning medications like warfarin.

What are the benefits of the WATCHMAN device?

The WATCHMAN device offers a variety of benefits. First, it significantly reduces your risk of experiencing a stroke. What’s more, implanting the WATCHMAN device is a minimally invasive procedure. There’s no need for large incisions and most people only spend one night in the hospital. 

After you receive the WATCHMAN device, the recovery process is quick and pain-free. Most people return to work and other routine activities within a week.

Who is a candidate for the WATCHMAN device?

If you have a history of internal bleeding or you have an underlying medical condition that increases your risk of internal bleeding, you’re likely a candidate for the WATCHMAN device.

Following a review of your medical history and a physical exam, your Heart Care Centers of Florida provider can develop a treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

Is the WATCHMAN device safe?

The WATCHMAN device is safe and usually well-tolerated. Even so, it won’t necessarily cure all of your heart-related health problems. Following WATCHMAN surgery, many individuals still need to take aspirin regularly.

To learn more about the WATCHMAN device, make an appointment at Heart Care Centers of Florida by calling the nearest office or clicking the online scheduling tool.