Stroke Risk Reduction
WATCHMAN FLX™
People with atrial fibrillation (Afib) have a higher risk of stroke due to an irregular heart rhythm that can cause blood to clot in the left atrial appendage (LAA) of the heart. If the blood clot travels to the brain, it can cut off the oxygen-rich blood supply.
Most often, patients who are at increased risk of stroke because of Afib are treated using anticoagulation medication, known as blood thinners, but not everyone can tolerate the medication. For those with Afib not caused by a heart valve problem, Inova Schar Heart and Vascular offers an alternative to medication using a minimally invasive procedure to implant the WATCHMAN FLX™ device.