Minimally Invasive
This procedure is minimally invasive, which means you will recover more quickly and with less pain than more invasive procedures. The implanted device is about the size of a quarter. Recovery time depends on your health.
Watchman Procedure
At St. Rose Dominican, San Martin Hospital, our team of heart specialists perform the Watchman Procedure, also known as Left Atrial Appendage Closure procedure, a one-time implant, for patients with nonvalvular AFib who need an alternative to taking blood thinners.
Minimally Invasive Watchman Procedure in Las Vegas, NV
The Watchman Procedure, is a one-time, minimally invasive procedure for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem, also known as non-valvular AFib, who need an alternative to blood thinners. This procedure is also known as Left Atrial Appendage Closure. Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is caused by damage to the heart’s electrical system, which causes irregular heartbeats. This affects your heart's ability to pump blood normally, which can cause blood to pool in an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage, or LAA.
There, blood cells can stick together and form a clot. When a blood clot escapes from the LAA and travels through the blood vessels to another part of the body, it can cut off blood supply to the brain, causing a stroke.
The Watchman implant is a self-expanding device, about the size of a quarter. The device is placed in your heart, through a catheter, during a minimally invasive procedure performed in the Electrophysiology Lab (EP Lab). Once implanted, the device creates a barrier so blood clots cannot form in the appendage. The device is permanent and never needs to be replaced.
Benefits of Watchman Procedure
Short procedure time
The implantation procedure typically an hour; the length of the procedure may vary due to differences in anatomy. Patients commonly stay in the hospital overnight and leave the next day. The length of your stay will depend on your overall health, and if you experience any complications.
Alternative to taking blood thinners
Blood thinners are medicines to prevent blood clots from forming, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. However, since the medication prevents blood clots from forming, it can cause bleeding issues and other side effects.
Overview of Watchman Procedure
The Watchman implant is a small, FDA-approved flexible implant about the size of a quarter. Made from very light, compact materials commonly used in many other medical implants, it is placed into your heart during a minimally invasive procedure and is permanent.
To understand how the Watchman Procedure works, watch this video to help understand the connection between AFib and stroke.
Who is a good candidate for the Watchman Procedure?
The Watchman Procedure reduces stroke risk and blood thinner worries for patients with nonvalvular AFib. For those taking blood thinner medication, it means an extra measure of safety if they have bleeding due to certain medical conditions such as an ulcer or live an active lifestyle.
Like any medical procedure, Left Atrial Appendage Closure comes with risks, so it isn’t right for everyone. Talk to your cardiologist about the benefits and risks. Together, you'll decide if the procedure may be right for you.
What to expect during the Watchman Procedure
Prior to the procedure, the patient’s Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) is examined using a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) to verify the absence of blood clots and measure the size of the appendage to ensure that the device is an appropriate fit, to close the appendage.
The Left Atrial Appendage Closure procedure is performed in the Electrophysiology Lab (EP Lab). The patient will be placed under general anesthesia to put them in a deep sleep, and a ventilator will be used to help them breathe.
A local anesthetic will be used to numb the puncture site. During the procedure, doctors access the left atrial appendage (LAA) with a thin tube, called a catheter, which is guided through a vein in the leg, to reach the heart. The device is implanted to the LAA to help to form a barrier so blood clots cannot form in the appendage.
Be sure to follow all instructions provided by your health care team. It is important to take your medications as directed and to make follow-up appointments before leaving the hospital.
Post Watchman Procedure
Because the Watchman Procedure requires only a small incision, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, as activities are gradually added back to their routines.
Following the procedure, your doctor will prescribe you a medication regimen they believe is right for you. These medications are taken until your left atrial appendage is completely closed off. It's important that you discuss your medications with your doctor and do not change or modify your medications or dosages unless prescribed by your doctor.
Watchman Procedure in Las Vegas, NV
Dignity Health – St. Rose Dominican, San Martín Campus
Located in southwest Las Vegas, the San Martin Hospital has received numerous awards and recognition for its quality care.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican, San Martin Campus
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican, San Martin Campus, 8280 W. Warm Springs Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89113
Take the next step
Talk to a cardiologist to determine if the Watchman Procedure is right for you by calling (855) 236-0702.
