I know of several who had a Watchman implanted. I have not seen any problems reported except that occasionally they have not sealed off completely and that there is leaking through them into and out of the left atrial appendage (LAA). If that is determined, usually via a trans-esophageal echocardiogram (TEE) at about the six month mark, and perhaps again at the 12 month mark, then it is deemed to have been a failed attempt at sealing off the LAA . The patient would normally be advised to continue with anti-platelet medication like Rivaroxaban or Apixaban (Xarelto or Eliquis) for life. For those where the TEE shows a sealed and non-leaking Watchman, the patient may be able to cease taking an anti-coagulant if there are no other significant risk factors for stroke. Age, vascular disease, diabetes, COPD....conditions like that might lead the consulting physician to strongly recommend remaining on a DOAC (direct-acting oral anti-coagulant).

Thank you for the insight.Idon't know the percentage of failures but my Doctor tells me it is less than 1%.
Appreciate your response.

I'm a 78 yr female who had the Watchman implanted last year. It was a complete success, no leaks. I am off all blood thinners except aspirin 81mg per day. Just had a 6 mo check up and doc said I'm good for 9 mo. No afib or palpitations. Feeling good!!!

Thank you for your reply. I almost lost my life to the drug Eliquis and this was recommended to me by my cardiologist. Thank you again this is really refreshing to hear.

Hello @alyon917,

I combined your discussion with another discussion titled:

"Watchman experiences and results"
- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/watchman-2/

@abob started this discussion with a question very similar to yours and @ginnyjm, @lanieg and @oumike shared their experiences and similar questions and may have some new insight to share with you.

@alyon917 - have you already been determined as a candidate for this procedure and are wanting to get more experiences before you proceed? Has your provider had a chance to talk pros and cons with you? If you are comfortable sharing, what are you most concerned about with this procedure if you choose to go down that path?