SANTA MARIA, Calif. – April 11, 2025 – Marian Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the successful completion of its 500th Watchman procedure, a significant milestone in providing advanced treatment options for patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). 

The Watchman device offers a safe and effective alternative to long-term blood thinners for patients at risk of stroke due to non-valvular AFib.

The Watchman procedure involves implanting a small, parachute-shaped device in the left atrial appendage (LAA) to permanently close it off, preventing blood clots from forming and potentially causing a stroke.

“Reaching 500 Watchman implants is a meaningful milestone for our patients and our dedicated team,” said Dr. Brett Gidney, Cardiac Electrophysiologist at Marian Regional Medical Center. “Every implanted Watchman device represents a patient who no longer needs to take lifelong blood thinners for atrial fibrillation. It’s been incredibly rewarding to help bring this level of care to our community.” 

Katy Harrison, Watchman Program Coordinator at Marian, added, “We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team and the positive impact we’ve had on the lives of so many patients. This achievement reflects our commitment to providing personalized care and support throughout the entire Watchman journey.”

Marian Regional Medical Center remains dedicated to advancing cardiovascular care and providing patients with the latest treatment options for AFib and other heart conditions. The team celebrated this milestone with a short break for some cake and balloons. 

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About Marian Regional Medical Center

Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 191-bed medical center located in Santa Maria, California. The modern facility is home to a broad array of services including a level II trauma center, a level III neonatal intensive care unit, a nationally recognized cardiac care center, and the Central Coast’s only Comprehensive Community Cancer Program as recognized by the Commission on Cancer. Marian has been recognized for quality and patient safety and has received an “A” grade in hospital safety from the Leapfrog Group.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/marianregional.

About Dignity Health Central Coast

Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.