Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) with WATCHMAN

LAAO is a procedure that reduces the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It is an alternative to blood thinner medications.

Those with AFib are five times more likely to suffer a stroke. For them, blood does not pump out of the top of the heart normally, and clots can form in the left atrial appendage (LAA). The clots can then break loose and flow into the bloodstream, where they may travel to the brain causing a stroke.

To combat this risk of stroke, many people with AFib are prescribed blood thinners like warfarin. However, these medications require a frequent blood test and dietary restrictions. They also increase the user’s risk of bleeding.

For those looking to avoid these types of complications and lifestyle changes, LAAO has been found to be as effective as warfarin in stroke risk reduction with less risk of bleeding.

The LAAO procedure typically takes less than an hour to perform and a 24-hour stay in the hospital.

LAAO is an option for people who:

• Have AFib
• Have been advised to take blood thinners to reduce their risk of stroke from AFib
• Have experienced bleeding problems with blood thinners
• Are at risk for bleeding due to occupation or lifestyle

Why choose our program for LAAO?

• The FDA approved LAAO with WATCHMAN in 2015, making it available to the public and covered by Medicare and insurance. The CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center has been a leader in bringing this exciting procedure to Central Minnesota.
• We are one of the top three experienced programs in the state and have had excellent results.
• Our success has been well recognized, and our cardiologists travel around the country to teach others about the LAAO procedure.
• Our team works collaboratively with the patient, their families, primary care providers and specialists to provide a treatment option that improves the patient’s lifestyle and protects them from stroke.

Read how Karen Boche said bon voyage to blood thinners and risk of stroke.