Watchman

@abob my wife is about to have an ablation shortly and she is considering the watchmen. She would have a hard time tolerating blood thinners so a watchmen may be an option. It is supposed to restrict the forming of clots so a blood thinner would not be required except for maybe a short time after surgery. One issue is the skill set of the Electrophysiologist's skill with placement. Its also supposed be a shorter time under anesthesia. Its use is evaluated on a case by case basis.

Thx for your reply. Very interested in your wife’s procedure and outcome. Pls share here when you can. Thank you

I have a-fib, was on Eliquis & am a fall risk. My cardiologist wanted me off Eliquis & referred me for the Watchman. I had it done last August, was home that afternoon. I was put on Plavix I think for 3 months afterwards & now off . It’s an easy procedure!

I had the Watchman implanted last Sept. Off Eliquis, on Plavix for 6 weeks, now off Plavix. On baby aspirin only. Dizzy spells and falling gone. Still some imbalance but exercises helping. Feeling much better and blessed. 78 yrs old.

Thank you.
-How long does the device last?
-Why Plavix?
-Is the device 100% effective in stopping clots?
-Can you tell you have it in your body?
-Who makes the device?
Thank you...
Mike

Mike, the Watchman should last forever. It’s anchored securely. I think Plavix isn’t as strong a drug as Eliquis & I wasn’t on it that long. The Watchman stops the blood from pooling in the left chamber so no clots form - a fib prevents your heart from pumping the blood strong enough & it collects there. I can’t tell it’s implanted - no feeling at all. The area felt like a bruise right after surgery last August, but nothing now. I don’t know who makes the device. For me it was outpatient & I was a little tired just for a few days afterward. I was even able to have total knee replacement surgery on 4/8/25 with no issues! Make sure your surgeon has experience in doing the procedure. Hope this helps in your decision.

Thank you so much. I’m glad it’s working well.
Who recommended the Watchman for you and why?
Which type specialist did the implant?
Did your insurance (easily) cover this?

My cardiologist recommended the Watchman b/c I’m a fall risk from having mild CP & I’m 77 years old. The surgeon is a cardiac electrophysiologist. My insurance covered all but a small portion.

Ginnyjm,
Got it.
Thank you for the info.
Mike Collins

KEEP SMILING - STAY HEALTHY