The Watchman Procedure

The Watchman for atrial fibrillation — Only at The Heart Hospital

For some patients with atrial fibrillation (Afib), managing stroke risk can be challenging—especially for those who cannot safely take blood thinners long-term. At The Heart Hospital at St. Joseph’s/Candler, we are committed to bringing the most advanced cardiovascular treatments to our region.

We are proud to be the only hospital in the region offering The Watchman, a minimally invasive implant designed to reduce stroke risk by preventing blood clots from forming in the heart. This breakthrough therapy provides a safe and effective alternative to long-term blood thinner use, helping patients regain peace of mind while reducing their overall risk of stroke.

As the region’s leader in cardiovascular care, The Heart Hospital has a long-standing history of bringing cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures to Savannah. We were the first to introduce advanced treatments such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), Afib ablations and congenital heart hole closures, setting the standard for heart care in the region.

How The Watchman works

For patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, blood clots that can lead to strokes often originate in a small pocket of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). Studies show that the majority of stroke-causing clots form in this area, increasing the risk of stroke fivefold.

The Watchman device is about the size of a quarter and shaped like an umbrella. It is designed to seal off the LAA, preventing clots from forming and breaking loose, which could travel to the brain, lungs or other parts of the body.

The procedure: A minimally-invasive approach

• The procedure is performed by an interventional cardiologist using a catheter-based technique, meaning no open-heart surgery is required.
• A small incision is made in the patient’s leg, and the device is guided through a vein up into the heart.
• Once properly positioned, The Watchman is expanded, permanently sealing off the LAA.
• Over time, the heart’s natural tissue grows over the device, securing it in place and allowing most patients to safely discontinue warfarin after 45 days.

The entire procedure takes only about an hour, and most patients are discharged the next day. While recovery is quick, patients are typically prescribed a short-term course of warfarin for 45 days to ensure proper healing.

Proven results: Long-term benefits of The Watchman

Studies show that more than 90% of patients who receive The Watchman are able to safely stop taking warfarin after the initial recovery period. For patients who are unable to tolerate blood thinners due to bleeding risks or other complications, this device offers a life-changing alternative that significantly improves their quality of life while reducing stroke risk.

Are you a candidate for The Watchman?

If you are living with Afib and also experience one or more of the following conditions, you may qualify for this groundbreaking therapy:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding that prevents safe blood-thinner use
• A history of brain bleeds that increase stroke risk
• Easy bruising or other bleeding disorders
• A high fall risk due to activity level, occupation, or other medical conditions

If any of these apply to you, The Watchman may be an option to protect your heart health while reducing the need for blood thinners.