Living with a Watchman device

Posted by fergie01 @fergie01, Apr 14 9:46am

I’ve had paroxysmal a-fib for about 15 years, I’m 70. Since I had a bad bleed while on Xarelto my doctor took me off it and I had a Watchman device inserted. Not too long after the Watchman was inserted, I had the worst a-fib I had ever had and after 30+ hours was shocked successfully. Because of my device, I do not have to take blood thinners. If you haven’t already, it’s definitely worth discussing it with your doctor.

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lanieg | @lanieg | May 1 7:49am

I had the Watchman implanted in September 2023. Take only a baby aspirin. Feel much better, no afib episodes.

1gratefuldawg | @1gratefuldawg | May 4 2:49pm

I would like to know how your episode for 30+ hours might differ from me being in Afib 100% of the time (again). Overall I’m just really tired and can only do about 25%-50% of my daily tasks outside and around the house. I’m 70 and retired, had Open Maze surgery Oct 2010 to correct my then 100% of the time afib.

fergie01 | @fergie01 | May 4 4:29pm

I have paroxysmal a-fib, which is probably different than what you have. I occasionally have afib. Your treatment is probably different also. My watchman keeps me from getting blood clots which can cause a stroke, the biggest threat with a-fib. It does not treat a-fib. I hope you get some relief from it soon. It’s exhausting.

1gratefuldawg | @1gratefuldawg | May 4 9:19pm

In reply to @fergie01 "I have paroxysmal a-fib, which is probably different than what you have. I occasionally have afib...." + (show)

Yes I agree it’s exhausting

gram0322 | @gram0322 | May 5 8:20am

Does the Watchman prevent clots and/or prevent them from traveling?

1gratefuldawg | @1gratefuldawg | May 5 9:17am

In reply to @gram0322 "Does the Watchman prevent clots and/or prevent them from traveling?" + (show)

The WATCHMAN implant is a small device used to prevent blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) by closing off the left atrial appendage, where clots often form. It offers an alternative to blood thinners, reducing the risk of stroke without the need for ongoing medication.

sport67 | @sport67 | Jun 14 10:25am

Has anyone had a bad outcome with the watchman ? I am considering having the procedure. My afib is new and the doctor cans do the ablation along with the watchman.

gloaming | @gloaming | Jun 14 11:12am

In reply to @sport67 "Has anyone had a bad outcome with the watchman ? I am considering having the procedure...." + (show)

I have been on AF fora for years now, and have never seen anyone post who has reported a dangerous outcome over a Watchman being implanted. The worst that can happen, as far as I can tell, is that the 'seal' doesn't take place over six months and that the appendage therefore continues to leak...which means it can leak small clots....which you do not want. That is why the EP will require a TEE at the six month mark to see if there is any evidence of a leak. If you don't leak, and if other comorbidities don't still require you to be on warfarin or a DOAC, you can go off apixaban or off rivaroxaban.

sport67 | @sport67 | Jun 14 4:56pm

Thanks for info. The watchman looks like a positive treatment option.

fergie01 | @fergie01 | Jun 15 9:55am

I got my Watchman a few years ago. Had a very long bout of afib after it was put in place and formed no clots. I am not on blood thinners. I'm happy I got mine.

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