The Watchman device is a medical device that is used to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a type of irregular heartbeat. AFib is a common condition that can increase the risk of stroke, as it can cause blood to pool in the heart and form clots that can travel to the brain.
The Watchman device is a small, umbrella-like device that is inserted into the left atrial appendage (LAA) of the heart through a catheter. The LAA is a small, pouch-like structure in the heart that is responsible for a significant portion of the blood clots that occur in people with AFib. The device is designed to seal off the LAA and prevent blood clots from forming and traveling to the brain.
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Treat Arrhythmias
Office Buford
Office Duluth
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1120 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
Suite 208 & 209
Suwanee, Georgia
Phone :
7706379247
Fax :
7702908084
Office Buford
Office Duluth
Office Dacula
Office Grayson
Office Snellville
Office Suwanee
1120 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard Suite 208 & 209 Suwanee, Georgia
Phone : 7706379247
Fax : 7702908084
Benefits Of The Watchman Device
There are several potential benefits to using the Watchman device, including:
- Reduced risk of stroke: The main advantage of the Watchman implant is that it can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in people with AFib. According to clinical studies, the device can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 54%.
- Reduced need for blood thinners: Many people with AFib are prescribed blood thinners, such as warfarin, to reduce their risk of stroke. However, these medications can have a range of side effects and require regular monitoring and dose adjustments. The Watchman device can reduce the need for blood thinners, as it effectively seals off the LAA and prevents blood clots from forming.
- Minimally invasive procedure: The Watchman device is inserted through a catheter, which means it can be implanted with minimal invasiveness. This can reduce the risk of complications and make the procedure more comfortable for the patient.
- Long-term effectiveness: The Watchman device is shown to be effective at reducing the risk of stroke in the long term. In clinical studies, the device has demonstrated a sustained reduction in the risk of stroke over several years.
Drawbacks Of The Watchman Device
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using the Watchman device, including:
- Potential complications: As with any medical procedure, there is a risk of complications associated with the implantation of the Watchman device. These can include bleeding, infection, and damage to the heart or surrounding blood vessels.
- Limited availability: The Watchman device is not widely available, as it is only approved for use in certain countries and is not covered by all insurance plans.
- Cost: The cost of the Watchman device and the procedure to implant it can be significant, and it may not be covered by insurance.
- Ongoing monitoring: While the Watchman device is designed to be a long-term solution, it requires ongoing monitoring to ensure that it is functioning properly. This can involve regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider and may require additional procedures to maintain the device.
Summary
In summary, the Watchman device is a medical device that is used to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It has the potential to significantly reduce the risk of stroke and the need for blood thinners and can be implanted with minimal invasiveness. However, there is a risk of complications associated with the procedure, and the device may not be widely available or covered by insurance.
It also requires ongoing monitoring and may have a high upfront cost. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of the Watchman device with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for you. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks and help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
