An interdisciplinary team of Deborah interventional cardiologists and electrophysiologists implanted the first WATCHMAN FLX™ device at Deborah. This is the next generation of WATCHMAN, which is a one-time, minimally invasive procedure for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem (also known as non-valvular AFib) who need an alternative to blood thinners. Implanted into the heart to close off the left atrial appendage, the device prevents blood clots from forming and causing a stroke. The WATCHMAN FLX has a far superior safety profile, greater procedural performance, and expands the treatable patient population because of its structure and size.

Many of Deborah’s WATCHMAN patients have successfully discontinued their use of blood thinners. The new WATCHMAN FLX — able to be used on a wider group of patients – will offer an opportunity for improved quality of life to many more Deborah patients.