Procedures

Living with a Watchman Device

Your guide to recovery, follow-up care, and enjoying life after Watchman implantation.

Immediately After the Procedure

In the Hospital

Most patients stay overnight for observation
You'll need to lie flat for several hours after the procedure
Nurses will monitor your heart rhythm and check the groin site
An echocardiogram may be done to confirm device placement

First Few Days at Home

• Keep the groin area clean and dry
• Avoid heavy lifting (nothing over 10 pounds) for one week
• No strenuous activity or exercise for one week
• Take medications exactly as prescribed
• It's normal to feel tired — rest as needed

Medication Timeline

First 45 Days: Blood Thinner Required

You'll continue taking a blood thinner (usually warfarin or a DOAC) plus aspirin while tissue grows over the device.

Why? The device needs time to become covered with a layer of cells (endothelialization). During this healing period, blood thinners prevent clots from forming on the device.

45-Day TEE Check

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is performed to confirm the device is properly sealing the left atrial appendage.

If successful: You can typically stop the blood thinner and transition to dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin + clopidogrel) for 6 months.

After 6 Months: Aspirin Only

Most patients can stop clopidogrel and continue with just aspirin long-term. 96% of Watchman patients discontinue blood thinners within one year.

Follow-Up Appointments

45 Days

TEE to check device seal

Determines if blood thinner can be stopped

6 Months

Office visit

Review medications, check progress

12 Months

Office visit + imaging

Confirm long-term success

Annually

Regular follow-up

Ongoing monitoring as needed

Living Your Best Life

Freedom from Blood Thinner Concerns

Once you've successfully stopped blood thinners, you'll enjoy:

No dietary restrictions — Eat leafy greens and vitamin K foods freely

No INR monitoring — No more frequent blood tests

Reduced bleeding risk — Lower risk of serious bleeding

More active lifestyle — Less worry about cuts and bruises

Travel freedom — No medication monitoring while traveling

Simplified medication regimen — Just aspirin for most patients

Important Reminders

You Still Have AFib

The Watchman reduces stroke risk but does not cure atrial fibrillation. You may still need rate or rhythm control medications, and you should continue to manage your AFib as directed.

Medical Procedures & Dental Care

Always tell healthcare providers you have a Watchman device. You may need:

• Antibiotics before dental procedures (for the first 6 months)
• Special consideration before certain imaging tests (MRI safe with most Watchman devices)

Carry Your Watchman Card

You'll receive an implant card with your device information. Keep it with you at all times in case of medical emergencies.

When to Contact Us

Contact our office or seek medical attention if you experience:

⚠️ Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
⚠️ Significant bleeding that won't stop
⚠️ Fever or signs of infection at groin site
⚠️ Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
⚠️ Swelling, pain, or color change in leg
⚠️ New or worsening palpitations

Watchman Timeline

Day 1: Procedure & hospital stay

Week 1: Light activity only

Day 45: TEE check → stop blood thinner

Month 6: Stop clopidogrel

Year 1+: Aspirin only

Questions About Recovery?

Our team is here to support you through every step of your recovery.