Season 1, Ep#6: Andy Dublin MD joins Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey to discuss the Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device, also known as the Watchman device.

They explain that atrial fibrillation is not a fatal heart disease, but the biggest risk is the risk of stroke. The Watchman device is an alternative to blood thinners for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. The procedure involves inserting the device into the left atrial appendage to prevent blood clots from forming and potentially causing a stroke. The risks associated with the procedure are low, and most patients can go home the same day.

Takeaways

Atrial fibrillation is not a fatal heart disease, but the biggest risk is the risk of stroke.

The Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device, also known as the Watchman device, is an alternative to blood thinners for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation.

The procedure involves inserting the device into the left atrial appendage to prevent blood clots from forming and potentially causing a stroke.

The risks associated with the Watchman procedure are low, and most patients can go home the same day.

Sound Bites

"You're never going to die from this. If you do, you'll be the first."

"Before the Watchman device, there were no alternatives to blood thinners for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation."

"The Watchman procedure takes about 70 minutes, with the actual implantation taking around 20 to 25 minutes."

Medical Disclaimer

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