Reducing AFib Stroke Risk

To improve the quality of life for patients living with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), Aultman is proud to offer an exciting new technology called the Watchman Device. This device effectively reduces the risk of stroke for patients with AFib by permanently closing off the left atrial appendage - the area in an AFib patient's heart where blood is most likely to pool and form a clot. It has been approved for AFib patients whose arrhythmia is not caused by a heart valve problem, and who need an alternative to using blood thinners such as Coumadin.

How is the Watchman Device Implanted?

The Watchman Device is implanted via catheter through a small incision in the upper leg. To place the device, the surgeon then inserts a narrow tube, as done in a standard stent procedure and guides the Watchman Device into the heart's left atrial appendage. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete. Patients commonly stay in the hospital overnight and leave the next day. 

The video below offers a more detailed view of the procedure.

The Aultman Specialized Heart & Valve Center's team offers this minimally invasive procedure to eligible AFib patients who live in Stark County and the surrounding areas. By working together, these medical professionals from different specialties pool their combined expertise to offer a collaborative, comprehensive approach to helping people heal and recover from heart and vascular disease. Their coordinated efforts will continue to create positive outcomes in this rapidly evolving field of medicine. 

Aultman's Specialized Heart & Valve Center is now screening patients for eligibility for the Watchman implant and has begun scheduling procedures. For more information on the Aultman Specialized Heart & Valve Center, please call 330-454-8076.