@gloaming I was told that there was an initial TEE preceding the surgery to evaluate the heart and what size devise is needed. Then there is the TEE that is done during the watchman procedure. Then there are the followup TEEs perhaps at 6 months and possibly one year. And of course, if there are any complications, there would be more.

Regarding taking DOACs, my body is currently not being able to handle Eliquis 2.5 mg ONCE a day, let alone 5 mg twice a day. The EP said I had to be on ELiquis 5 mg twice a day or the equivalent of smoother blood thinner in order for him to do the watchman surgery, because the body frequently has blood clots during the procedure. I was told I would have to take this , for me, higher dose of blood thinner for a year after the procedure. That's just not acceptable to me. Fortunately, I am not at a high risk level right now, 4% AFIB and lots of SVTs, and I am managing it with other treatments and 2.5 mg Eliquis once a day. I am seeing my hematologist this coming week to see how my levels are. I was only exploring the Watchman as a way to get off blood thinners. Now I am considering Warfarin..... Thanks for sharing your experience.