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Any experiences with Watchman Implant for A-Fib?
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: Mar 8 8:52am | Replies (261)Comment receiving replies
I was recently told by my cardiologist that according to my heart monitor results that I have AFib. I was put on Eliquis as they ran additional tests. I then developed an abnormal heart rate and was put on Amiodarone. All tests show normal and he is now suggesting a Watchman. My overall health is better than normal for age 81. What are the advantages and disadvantages for the Watchman?
Replies to "I was recently told by my cardiologist that according to my heart monitor results that I..."
Thanks for the information. I would love to get off Eliquis, saving the expense and side effects. The only heart issue so far is AFib and an irregular heart beat. I have a stress test in 10 days followed with a summary meeting to discuss the watchman. What are the side effects of watchman?
Except for getting off the blood thinner and all that entails, the purpose of the Watchman is to prevent strokes, the other meds are not involved.
The Watchman is a small inert device. Once the “plug” [my word] is covered with new heart tissue, I haven’t noticed any side effects. I just assume it it’s doing it’s job!
The Watchman device is intended to close off your heart’s left atrial appendage and prevent pooled blood in the appendage from forming clots. If part of a formed clot in the appendage were to break free and travel through an artery to the brain it can cause a serious, if not fatal stroke.
The Watchman closes off the appendage, but it is not without risk. Clots have been shown to form on the outer surface of the Watchman and occasionally break free. It happened to a family member of mine who was at very high risk of falling and therefor uncontrolled bleeding from Eliquis. His doctor installed the Watchman and weaned him off of Eliquis after 3 months and he suffered a stroke within about another 30 days. Imaging tests revealed multiple clots formed on his Watchman device. It maybe rare but it’s a definite risk that you need to discuss with your cardiologist.
Like you, I also have AFIB and have had cardioversions and an ablation, but I prefer to stay on Eliquis. Eliquis also comes with risks. You and your doctor have to weigh out the risks of both to see what works for you. Be careful of the marketing hype that often comes with medical devices and medications. Every intervention and medication has its risks.
Invasive vs prophylaxis at 81, I think your voice is yours. Bless You
Hello @fredster4 and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. To help you connect with other members more quickly, you will notice I have moved your post into an existing discussion on Watchman Implants, which you can find here:
- Any experiences with Watchman Implant for A-Fib?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/watchman-implant-for-a-fib/
Members such as @no1gaga @fdixon63 @kathe626 @elizabeth1941 @hopeful33250 @1943 @jimbotch @ronva2co @kidsincollege @odaleberg @phoenix1647 @fiddlinchuck and @debithejedi who can help answer your questions.
What are your main concerns about the device?
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I had a Watchman emplaced in January and they did esophageal echo scan in March and everything is fine. The procedure is done under general anesthesia, but did not require an overnight in the hospital.
I had an abdominal bleed in December. I’ve had a-fib, mitral valve repair about 24 years ago, took warfarin, had a ablation and now have a dual lead pacemaker. Because I have other chronic health problems, my diet was very limited and difficult to maintain. I am very happy to now be able green vegetables!