Watchman

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The WATCHMAN FLX is a permanent implant that closes off a part of the heart where blood clots commonly form.

It helps reduce stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem and is an alternative to blood thinners like warfarin.

How it Works

  • WATCHMAN FLX is an implant about the size of a quarter that fits into a part of your heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA).
  • 90% of stroke-causing blood clots that come from the heart are formed in the LAA.
  • WATCHMAN FLX permanently closes off this part of your heart to keep those blood clots from escaping.

The Procedure

WATCHMAN FLX doesn’t require open-heart surgery. Here’s what happens during the implant procedure:

  • The doctor makes a small cut in your upper leg and inserts a narrow tube.
  • The WATCHMAN FLX implant is then guided through the tube, into your left atrial appendage (LAA).
  • The procedure is done under general anesthesia and typically takes about an hour. People who get the WATCHMAN FLX implant usually stay in the hospital overnight and go home the next day.
  • After the procedure, you’ll take warfarin until your LAA is permanently closed off—usually just 45 days.
  • During that time, heart tissue grows over the WATCHMAN FLX implant to form a barrier against blood clots.

Click here to watch a 4-minute video about how WATCHMAN FLX works. 

Contact Us

Visit the Meet Our Team page to find a physician who offers WATCHMAN FLX or to schedule an appointment.