Left Atrial Appendage Closure: Is it right for me?
If you have been diagnosed with non- valvular atrial fibrillation and your healthcare provider has determined that you are a suitable candidate for short-term use of blood thinners (however, not for long-term use due to risk factors or prior bleeding), you may be a candidate for Left Atrial Appendage Closure with a Watchman™ or Amulet device.
About Left Atrial Appendage Closure with Watchman or Amulet
The left atrial appendage is a small sack-like structure that is part of your left atrium (top left chamber of the heart). This is where more than 90% of blood clots form that are associated with the strokes from atrial fibrillation (AFib). The Watchman or Amulet device occlude, or plug, this pocket of tissue. Once the left atrial appendage is closed, your healthcare provider may discuss the possibility of stopping oral blood thinners over time as healing occurs. With left atrial appendage closure, your risk for stroke from AFib is reduced to around 1%. This is the same risk reduction you have while taking blood thinners. These device implants do NOT protect you from strokes related to other causes, such as elevated blood pressure or certain congenital heart disorders.
Understanding non-valvular atrial fibrillation
Non-valvular atrial fibrillation is an irregular, often rapid, heart rhythm that is not caused by a mechanical (metal) heart valve issue or significant mitral valve stenosis (narrowing). AFib may include some of the following symptoms:
- Fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Shortness of breath
