Watchman 101: A Simple Guide to How the Procedure Works

If you’ve been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib) and take blood thinners to reduce your stroke risk, you may have heard about the Watchman procedure as a possible alternative. But what exactly is it, and how does it work?

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you understand what the Watchman device is, how the procedure is done, and what to expect along the way.

What Is the Watchman Device?

The Watchman is a small, parachute-shaped device that’s implanted in the heart to permanently seal off the left atrial appendage (LAA) — a small pouch where harmful blood clots often form in people with non-valvular AFib.

By closing this area, the Watchman helps prevent clots from entering the bloodstream and potentially causing a stroke. It offers patients an alternative to lifelong blood thinners like warfarin or DOACs (Eliquis, Xarelto, etc.).

Who Is the Procedure For?

Watchman may be recommended if:

• You have non-valvular atrial fibrillation

• You’re at risk for stroke

• You’ve experienced side effects or complications from blood thinners

• You’re looking for a long-term solution to reduce your reliance on medication

Your cardiologist, like Dr. Kiran Reddy, will evaluate your health history and current medications to determine if you’re a candidate.

How the Procedure Works: Step by Step

1. Pre-Procedure Prep

   You’ll meet with your care team for tests and imaging to ensure the Watchman is right for you. On the day of the procedure, you’ll be given a mild sedative or general anesthesia.

2. Implantation

   The Watchman device is inserted through a small incision in the upper leg using a narrow tube (catheter). It’s guided up to the heart through a vein and positioned in the left atrial appendage.

3. Deployment

   Once in place, the device is carefully expanded to seal off the LAA. The entire procedure usually takes about an hour.

4. Recovery

   Most patients only need to stay one night in the hospital. You’ll be monitored and then discharged with instructions for follow-up care.

5. Healing & Follow-Up

   Over the next several weeks, heart tissue will grow over the device, forming a permanent barrier. During this time, you may continue taking a short course of blood thinners until your cardiologist determines it’s safe to stop.

   
   

Benefits of the Watchman Procedure

• Reduces stroke risk

• Minimally invasive

• Often just a one-night hospital stay

• Long-term alternative to blood thinners

• Improved quality of life for many patients

  
  

Hear It From a Patient

John Werth, one of Dr. Reddy’s patients, recently underwent the Watchman procedure and shared his experience:

“I wasn’t nervous at all—Dr. Kiran Reddy explained everything thoroughly. What stood out most was how caring the whole team was. I’m excited not to take blood thinners anymore. Absolutely go for it.”

If you or a loved one is exploring alternatives to blood thinners, Dr. Reddy and his team are here to guide you. The Watchman procedure has helped thousands of people regain peace of mind—and it might be right for you.