WATCHMAN™ Procedure in Houston, TX
If you have non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common type of irregular heartbeat, you may face an increased risk of stroke. For decades, the primary medication to reduce this stroke risk has been blood thinners (anticoagulants). While effective, blood thinners can cause side effects such as increased bleeding risk, dietary restrictions, and the need for regular blood tests. The WATCHMAN™ device offers a different approach. At Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston, our specialists offer the WATCHMAN™ procedure in Houston, TX, as an alternative for eligible patients. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation.
What is the WATCHMAN™ Device
The WATCHMAN™ is a small, parachute-shaped device made from a nickel-titanium alloy mesh. It is designed to permanently close off a small pouch in your heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). This is where more than 90% of stroke-causing blood clots form in people with AFib.
By sealing the LAA, the WATCHMAN™ device effectively prevents clots from escaping, reducing the risk of an AFib-related stroke.
Any Questions About WATCHMAN™ Procedure?
Who is a Candidate for the WATCHMAN™ Procedure
This procedure is for adults with non-valvular AFib who need an alternative to long-term blood thinners like warfarin.
Your doctor may discuss this option with you if you have experienced significant bleeding while on blood thinners, have a lifestyle or job that puts you at a high risk for bleeding, or simply struggle with the demands of long-term anticoagulation therapy.
Our specialist will conduct thorough evaluations to determine if the WATCHMAN™ procedure in Houston, TX is suitable for your heart anatomy and overall health.
What to Expect from the WATCHMAN™ Procedure at Our Clinic in Houston, TX
The procedure itself typically takes about an hour. Most patients receive general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and comfortable throughout.
- Accessing the Heart
Your specialist will make a small incision in your upper leg (usually the groin) and insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. - Guiding the Device
Using advanced imaging, the catheter is guided through your blood vessels into the heart, reaching the left atrial appendage. - Placing the Device
The WATCHMAN™ device is delivered through the catheter, expanded to fit the opening, and carefully positioned to seal the LAA. - Completing the Procedure
Once the device is confirmed to be secure, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care for WATCHMAN™ Procedure
After the procedure, you will spend a night under observation. You will start a course of blood thinners for a short period, typically about 45 days. This gives your heart tissue time to grow over the device, naturally sealing it in place.
At the 45-day mark, you will have a follow-up transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) to check that the device has healed properly and sealed the LAA. If the scan shows a successful closure, your doctor will often transition you off blood thinners and onto aspirin therapy, and eventually, aspirin alone.
Our team provides clear, personalized instructions for your recovery from WATCHMAN™ procedure in Houston, TX, helping you return to your daily activities with confidence.
Reliable Heart Care That Improves Lives
Our patients enjoy healthier, more fulfilling lives through the focused care of our heart specialists.
I Am Blessed To Be His Patient
Dr. Baig cares about his patients, and also for those under his care when entering hospital through ER and not his regular patient. Which he did for my husband a number of times. I credit Dr. Baig to saving his life in such a situation in the years past.
Jo Ann Eubanks
The Doctors In That Group Have Shown They Care About The Patients As Well
I am completely satisfied with the care I receive from Dr. Khan, he is an excellent cardiologist, he shows that he care about my heart and health. The staffing has been friendly and kind giving excellent customer service and always a friendly smile and pleasant attitude. I am blessed to be able to give a heartful thanks to have Dr. Khan as my cardiologist and The HeartCare Center as a whole providing care for my health.
Dar LaV
The Heart Care Center Is An Excellent Heart Care Group
Usually there is not too long a wait for your appointment and the aids are always kind. The doctors listen to your needs and never make you feel like you are wasting their time.
Julia Kovach
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Watchman™ Device Last?
Once implanted and healed, the device lasts a lifetime. It never needs replacement and continuously protects by sealing the area where clots most often form.
What are the Potential Risks of the WATCHMAN™ Procedure?
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks. These can include bleeding, device movement, or fluid buildup around the heart. Our doctor will review all potential risks and benefits with you in detail before the procedure.
Will I Feel the Device Inside My Heart?
No, you will not feel the WATCHMAN™ device once it is implanted. It is placed inside your heart’s left atrial appendage, and patients do not report any sensation of it being there.
Consult Us to Learn if the WATCHMAN™ Procedure is Right for You!
If you are looking for a long-term alternative to blood thinners, the WATCHMAN™ procedure in Houston, TX could be the right choice for you. We invite you to discuss your options with our experienced team to determine the best plan for your heart health. Call us at (281) 955-7863 to book an appointment!
