A new implant device may be a breakthrough for reducing the risk of stroke for atrial fibrillation patients. The Watchman Left Atrial Appendage Closure provides a new option for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who may require an alternative to long-term use of blood thinners.
The device is now FDA-approved in the United States and more widely available.
Currently, about 5 million Americans are diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, the most common cardiac arrhythmia where the upper chambers of the heart (atrium) beat too fast and with irregular rhythm (fibrillation). But having an irregular heartbeat is not the only challenge facing these patients. The condition causes them to be at a higher risk of experiencing a stroke — in fact, five times more likely compared to those without atrial fibrillation.