what is a watchman device

The WATCHMAN device is a small, parachute-shaped implant about the size of a quarter that is used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) not caused by a heart valve problem. It is designed to prevent blood clots from forming in the left atrial appendage (LAA), a small sac-like extension of the left atrium or upper part of the heart. The device is implanted in the heart through a minimally invasive, one-time procedure using a catheter through a leg vein that connects to the heart. The WATCHMAN device effectively reduces the risk of stroke in AFib patients and can eliminate the need for frequent blood tests and food-and-drink restrictions that come with traditional blood thinners like Warfarin. It is a safe and FDA- approved alternative to lifelong blood thinners for eligible patients with AFib