As you evaluate patients in your daily practice, we hope you consider referring
patients who may be candidates for the WATCHMAN™ Device. Patients
who may qualify for the procedure:
- Are at increased risk for stroke and systemic embolism based on CHADS2
or CHA2DS2-VASc scores and are recommended for anticoagulation therapy;
- Are deemed by their physicians to be suitable for short-term warfarin or
NOAC therapy
- Have an appropriate rationale to seek a non-pharmacologic alternative to
warfarin, taking into account the safety and effectiveness of the device
compared to warfarin.
The implant procedure usually lasts about an hour, and the patient typically
stays 1-2 nights at our Heart Center.
The SVMH WATCHMAN program has a structural heart program coordinator who
works closely with the interventional cardiologist to provide patient
education and guide patients through the screening, scheduling and follow-up process.