WATCHMAN

This procedure is an alternative for patients who have atrial fibrillation but are having complications from their blood thinners. Patients who have the Watchman do not need to take longterm anticoagulants, and therefore experience less bleeding and less bruising, while still being protected from having a stroke.

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+ who is a good candidate for a watchman?

  • Patients who have atrial fibrillation and are having bleeding issues or have contraindications for taking long term anticougulation may be good candidates for a Watchman
  • Examples include: history of falls, brain bleeds, GI bleeds, high risk activities, poor medication compliance

+ WHAT TESTS DO I NEED AS PART OF MY WORK-UP FOR WATCHMAN?

  • Transesophageal echo
  • CT scan

+ HOW IS THE WATCHMAN DONE?

  • Watchman is done in the hospital
  • You have to be asleep for the procedure
  • It takes about 45 minutes to complete the Watchman, but there is always about 45 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of recovery time after the Watchman is done
  • You will have catheters (tubes) advanced along your wrist and right groin
  • You will likely be a little groggy after the Watchman because of the anesthesia
  • There will likely be some soreness along the right groin immediately after the watchman

+ WHAT CAN I EXPECT POST WATCHMAN

  • You can expect to spend one night in the hospital or go home the same day
  • You will be put back on your blood thinner and aspirin for 45 days
  • Bruising and small bumps along the groin puncture site or down your legs is expected and will disappear within 1-2 months
  • No lifting more than 20lbs on either hand for 1 week
  • No running, jumping, squatting, exercising, swimming or submerging your body under water for 1 week
  • You CAN walk, climb stairs and shower the day after your Watchman