Medical Center Hospital is proud to announce that Dr. Manohar Angirekula, Dr. Adam Farber and Dr. Fernando Boccalandro successfully implanted the first WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device on April 1.
MCH is the only institution in the Permian Basin to offer the updated WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device, as part of the alternative procedure for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem.
As of today, MCH has successfully completed 159 WATCHMAN procedures, and will now only use the updated WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device moving forward, a news release said.
The WATCHMAN device is a novel alternative for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation at risk for stroke, especially those with a compelling reason not to be on blood thinners. The device closes off an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA) to keep harmful blood clots that can form in the LAA from entering the blood stream and potentially causing a stroke. The updated WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device has three updated features compared to the original WATCHMAN device:
- HEMOCOAT Technology – durable, thromboresistant coating that results in less inflammation and leads to quicker healing process
- Radiopaque markers for precise device placement
- New 40mm size to help treat larger appendages
The device is implanted during a one-time procedure that does not have to be replaced and can’t be seen outside the body. The procedure generally takes about an hour and most patients go home the next day.
“We’re thrilled to be able to offer the most up-to-date technology within the WATCHMAN program,” said Rene Rodriguez, Divisional Director of the Center for Heart Disease at MCH. “By offering the WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device to our patients, we continue to show that MCH is consistently bringing the newest and most innovative technology to our community to give them the best care possible right here at home.”
For more information on the new WATCHMAN FLX Pro Device, visit tinyurl.com/4ewfdt4s or call the ProCare Odessa Heart Institute at (432) 337-3117.
