Living with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) means constantly managing your risk of stroke. For decades, daily blood-thinning medications have been the standard treatment to prevent clots. However, for many New Jersey patients, long-term blood thinners come with ongoing challenges, such as routine blood monitoring, dietary restrictions, and an increased risk of severe bleeding. If you are seeking a permanent alternative to blood thinners, the WATCHMAN implant for AFib offers a proven, one-time solution that lowers stroke risk for life.
How Does the WATCHMAN Implant for AFib Work?
In people with non-valvular AFib, or AFib not caused by a heart valve problem, more than 90% of stroke-causing blood clots form in a small pouch attached to the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). Because AFib disrupts the heart’s natural rhythm, blood can pool in the LAA, forming dangerous clots that might travel to the brain.
The WATCHMAN implant for AFib acts as a permanent barrier. Roughly the size of a quarter, this self-expanding device is placed at the opening of the LAA to seal it off completely. Over time, your own heart tissue grows over the device, preventing clots from escaping into your bloodstream.
Who Is a Candidate for a WATCHMAN Device?
The WATCHMAN procedure is designed specifically for patients with non-valvular AFib who need an alternative to long-term anticoagulants. You may benefit if you:
- Have a history of major bleeding while taking blood thinners.
- Work a job or maintain an active lifestyle that increases your risk of traumatic bleeding or falls.
- Struggle to maintain a stable dosage on prescription blood thinners.
What to Expect During the WATCHMAN Procedure
Receiving the WATCHMAN implant for AFib is a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure performed under anesthesia.
Your electrophysiologist makes a small incision in your groin and guides a narrow tube through a blood vessel up to your heart. The device is positioned precisely in the LAA, taking about an hour in total. Most patients spend one night in the hospital and return to light activities within a few days. Within 45 days post-procedure, the vast majority of patients are cleared to safely stop taking their regular blood thinners.
Reclaim Your Peace of Mind with the Center for Atrial Fibrillation & Electrophysiology
You don’t have to choose between managing your stroke risk and living with the fear of bleeding complications. The expert electrophysiologists at the Center for Atrial Fibrillation & Electrophysiology at HCA specialize in advanced arrhythmia treatments tailored to your lifestyle.
Located in Flemington, NJ, our center provides comprehensive electrophysiology care for patients throughout Hunterdon County, Somerset County, and Central New Jersey. If you typically visit Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates in Clinton or Bridgewater, your cardiologist can seamlessly refer you to our Flemington location for specialized AFib evaluations. Contact us today at (908) 806-0180 to evaluate your eligibility for the WATCHMAN implant for AFib.