The WATCHMAN FLX is a permanent implant that closes off a part of the heart where blood clots commonly form.
It helps reduce stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem and is an alternative to blood thinners like warfarin.
How it Works
- WATCHMAN FLX is an implant about the size of a quarter that fits into a part of your heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA).
- 90% of stroke-causing blood clots that come from the heart are formed in the LAA.
- WATCHMAN FLX permanently closes off this part of your heart to keep those blood clots from escaping.
The Procedure
WATCHMAN FLX doesn’t require open-heart surgery. Here’s what happens during the implant procedure:
- The doctor makes a small cut in your upper leg and inserts a narrow tube.
- The WATCHMAN FLX implant is then guided through the tube, into your left atrial appendage (LAA).
- The procedure is done under general anesthesia and typically takes about an hour. People who get the WATCHMAN FLX implant usually stay in the hospital overnight and go home the next day.
- After the procedure, you’ll take warfarin until your LAA is permanently closed off—usually just 45 days.
- During that time, heart tissue grows over the WATCHMAN FLX implant to form a barrier against blood clots.
Click here to watch a 4-minute video about how WATCHMAN FLX works
Who is eligible for WATCHMAN FLX?
You may be a candidate for WATCHMAN FLX if you can answer yes to the following questions:
- Do you have atrial fibrillation (AFib) not caused by a heart valve problem?
- Has your doctor recommended that you take a blood thinner for your AFib?
- Can you take warfarin but need an alternative to long-term blood thinners for one of the reasons below?
- You have a history of serious bleeding while taking blood thinners
- You have a lifestyle, occupation, or condition that puts you at risk for serious bleeding
- You’re taking warfarin and having trouble with your treatment plan, and a different type of blood thinner isn’t an option for you
If you think this describes you, then talk to your doctor about WATCHMAN FLX.
People who SHOULD NOT receive the WATCHMAN FLX implant include but are not limited to those who:
- Cannot take warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel
- Should not or cannot undergo heart catheterization procedures
- Have an allergy or sensitivity to nitinol (nickel and titanium)
- Have a left atrial appendage that does not fit the WATCHMAN FLX implant
- Are taking blood thinners for a condition other than atrial fibrillation
Ask your doctor if any of these conditions apply to you. Be sure to talk with your doctor so that you thoroughly understand all of the risks and benefits.
