WATCHMAN FLX™ Technology Available for A-Fib Patients
Blood thinners may not be your only option to help prevent Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) stroke risk. Heritage Valley is pleased to offer non-valvular AFib patients an alternative to long-term blood thinning medications. The latest-generation WATCHMAN FLX™ Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant has been proven to reduce stroke risk in people with AFib not caused by a heart valve problem. According to Boston Scientific, manufacturer of the device, this technology has been implanted in more than 200,000 patients worldwide and is the most implanted device in the United States for stroke risk reduction. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent strokes, blocking your Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) significantly reduces your risk. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it is estimated that about 90% of the blood clots that cause strokes develop in the LAA.
The WATCHMAN FLX™ Implant is made of materials that are common to many medical devices, is about the size of a quarter, is shaped like a parachute and cannot be seen outside the body. It is also a permanent device that does not need to be replaced. This latest-generation technology has a new design to help treat more patients safely and effectively and ensure the best long-term outcomes. Your heart can continue to function with a closed Left Atrial Appendage.
How does it work?
The WATCHMAN FLX™ Implant is designed to keep harmful blood clots from entering your blood stream, potentially causing a stroke, by permanently closing off an area of the heart called the Left Atrial Appendage (LAA), which is a pouch-like bulge in the Left Atrium, or left upper heart chamber. By implanting the WATCHMAN FLX™ into the heart and closing off the LAA, the risk of stroke may be reduced and, over time, patients may be able to stop taking their blood thinners. While closing the LAA reduces stroke risk associated with AFib, it does not treat the AFib itself.
What happens during the procedure?
The WATCHMAN FLX™ Implant procedure is minimally invasive, is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The device is inserted into the heart through a catheter placed into a vein in the upper leg. The WATCHMAN FLX™ device is inserted into the LAA to cover its opening and seal it off, preventing the LAA from releasing blood clots. The catheter is then removed. Patients typically stay in the hospital overnight. Within a few days, you can begin to gradually return to your activities; however, you will need to check with your physician before resuming exercise or anything strenuous.
Could you benefit from WATCHMAN FLX™ Technology?
If you answer “yes” to any of the questions below, you may be a candidate for Left Atrial Appendage Closure with the WATCHMAN FLX™:
- Have you been diagnosed with AFib not caused by a heart valve problem?
- Are you currently taking blood thinning medications?
- Are you interested in a safe alternative to long-time use of blood thinners?
Contact Us
If you have been diagnosed with non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation, please discuss treatment alternatives with your physician or consult with a Cardiologist. The WATCHMAN FLX™ Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant may be an option for you.