Patients with atrial fibrillation are at higher risk of having strokes due to the formation of blood clots in the left atrial appendage of the heart. To minimize the risk of strokes, physicians often prescribe blood thinners. An alternative to long term use of blood thinners is implantation of the WATCHMAN ®, a small “umbrella” shaped device which is placed in the opening of the appendage. If successfully deployed, the patient may safely stop blood thinners.
Summary
Article Name
What is a cardiac WATCHMAN®?
Description
An alternative to long term use of blood thinners is implantation of the WATCHMAN, a small “umbrella” shaped device which is placed in the left atrial appendage of the heart. If successfully deployed, the patient may safely stop blood thinners.
Author
Woodholme Cardiovascular Associates
Publisher Name
Woodholme Cardiovascular Associates
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