The Watchman™: One Time. For a Lifetime.
At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we are always seeking innovative ways to improve the lives of our patients and provide them with the best possible care. That's why we are proud to announce that in January 2023, Dr. Okewole performed the first two Watchman™ procedures in Jackson, TN.
What is the Watchman™ procedure?
The Watchman™ procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib is a type of irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of stroke, and the Watchman™ procedure is designed to reduce this risk by closing off the left atrial appendage (LAA), which is part of the heart that is most likely to cause a stroke in patients with AFib.
The Watchman™ procedure is performed using a catheter-based approach, which means that the procedure is done through a small incision in the groin, rather than through open heart surgery. The Watchman™ device is inserted through the catheter and positioned in the LAA, where it is then deployed to close off the LAA and reduce the risk of stroke.
How can the Watchman™ procedure benefit our patients?
The Watchman™ procedure offers several benefits to our patients, including:
Reduced risk of stroke: The Watchman™ procedure is designed to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with AFib, and studies have shown that it is effective in reducing the risk of stroke in these patients.
Minimally invasive: The Watchman™ procedure is performed using a catheter-based approach, which means that the procedure is less invasive than traditional open heart surgery. This results in a faster recovery time and fewer complications compared to traditional surgical procedures.
Reduced need for blood thinners: Many patients with AFib are required to take blood thinners to reduce the risk of stroke, but these medications can have side effects and be difficult to manage. The Watchman™ procedure can reduce the need for blood thinners, making it a more convenient option for our patients.
Improved quality of life: By reducing the risk of stroke, the Watchman™ procedure can help to improve the quality of life for our patients with AFib. This means that they can feel more confident and secure in their daily activities, knowing that they have a lower risk of stroke.
At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care. That's why we are proud to offer the Watchman™ procedure, a minimally invasive option for reducing the risk of stroke in patients with AFib.
If you or a loved one is living with AFib and is concerned about the risk of stroke, we encourage you to make an appointment with one of our healthcare providers. We are here to support you every step of the way and to provide you with the care and treatment you need for a healthy heart.
