The Watchman

[Angela26]

Does anyone know if this is approved/available on NHS in Enland?

[Beancounter Volunteer]

Hi Angela

I understand it has been fitted to some with very high stroke risk, but almost always as part of another procedure, such as ablation, and not usually as a stand alone.

My understanding is that if you need a stand alone procedure, then usually in the UK this would be an LAAO which ties off the left atrial appendage wholly.

I also think I am right in saying that it does not reduce stroke risk to Nil, although the LAA is where most clots would form, it's not the only part of the atria where clots can form in AF.

Happy however, for others to correct me if I am mistaken.

Be well

Ian

[Angela26 in reply to Beancounter]

Thank you beancounter ,reading every thing I can about Watchman.NOAC ok but like the idea of 0 % medication

[BobD Volunteer]

Nothing is 100% protection obviously. There are pros and cons for all aspects of stroke protection. I think Ian is right on NHS policy. One needs to be either at extreme bleeding risk of anticoags or unable to take anticoags for other reasons.

[PeterWh]

Look on the main AFA website. There are a number of entries and also a pamphlet.

[seasider18]

Not when you can take a NOAC without any problem