Living with atrial fibrillation (AFib) can be challenging. As an AFib patient, you know this all too well. You need ongoing medical care and often find yourself taking medications to reduce your risk of stroke. But what if there was another solution that could reduce your risk of stroke and eliminate the need to take these medications? In this article, we’ll explore the world of Watchman implant and why they may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Firstly, what is a Watchman implant? It is a medical device that sits inside the left atrial appendage of your heart, where blood clots can form and be released to the rest of your body, causing strokes. The Watchman implant works to block off this area, preventing the formation of blood clots, and ultimately reducing your risk of stroke. It is a one-time procedure that can eliminate the need for blood-thinning medications like Warfarin, which can have side effects and require regular monitoring.
The benefits of using a Watchman implant are undeniable. Firstly, by eliminating the need for blood-thinning medications, you can reduce the risk of bleeding complications. While Warfarin can be an effective medication, it can increase the risk of abnormal bleeding and other side effects. Secondly, Watchman implant patients have seen lower mortality rates when compared to patients taking Warfarin, making it a more viable long-term solution. Finally, Watchman implants have shown to decrease overall healthcare costs, as patients have been found to require fewer hospitalizations and procedures compared to those taking Warfarin.
But with any medical procedure, there are risks that need to be considered. While the procedure is considered safe and has a 95% success rate, there is always the potential for complications. The biggest risk surrounding Watchman implants is the rare possibility that a blood clot could form outside of the left atrial appendage, which could lead to a stroke. However, the risks associated with taking blood-thinning medications are well documented and considered by many to be more significant.
Unfortunately, a Watchman implant may not be the best solution for every AFib patient. Patients with an enlarged left atrial appendage may not be able to receive the implant, and patients who have already experienced a stroke are not ideal candidates for the procedure. Additionally, the presence of another heart condition or illness may exclude a patient from receiving a Watchman implant.
Worth noting is that the Watchman implant does not cure AFib. It is not a replacement for electrophysiology procedures like ablation, which can address AFib at its source. However, in certain patients, it may be a more viable long-term solution than taking blood-thinning medications.
Conclusion:
So, what are the benefits of using a Watchman implant? The Watchman implant can reduce your risk of stroke, eliminate the need for blood-thinning medications, and decrease overall healthcare costs. While this procedure may not be best for every AFib patient, it is a safe and effective option for reducing the risk of stroke in certain individuals. As always, it is essential to speak with your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific needs. A professional consultation can address any concerns you may have and ensure the best possible outcomes for your treatment.