If you are considering the WATCHMAN™ implant, visit our microsite for more information.
Frequently asked questions
An MRI is a diagnostic test that uses a strong electromagnetic field to produce images of the human body. MRI safety testing has shown that the WATCHMAN Implant is “MRI conditional” and that WATCHMAN patients may safely have an MRI scan under certain conditions listed on the WATCHMAN Implant Card.
Important: Before getting an MRI, be sure to tell the doctor and the MRI technologist that you have a WATCHMAN Implant and show them your WATCHMAN Implant Card so they can take all necessary safety precautions.
Patients with WATCHMAN Implants can feel confident and safe when traveling. It’s important to carry your WATCHMAN Implant Card when traveling as it will alert medical and security personnel that you have an implanted device.
No. Your WATCHMAN Implant will not trigger metal detectors and you can walk through them safely.
The majority of people return to normal daily activities within a few days following the WATCHMAN Implant procedure. Check with your doctor before resuming your usual activities.
Call your doctor if you miss any doses of your medication. It’s extremely important that you take the recommended medications (blood thinners, clopidogrel and aspirin) at the recommended time. If you stop taking these medications or change their dosage before being instructed to do so by your doctor, it increases the chances of blood clot formation, subsequent stroke or even death. Talk to your doctor before stopping your medications or changing the dosage.
You should receive your WATCHMAN Implant Card at the hospital where you receive your implant. This wallet-sized card helps identify you as a patient with an implanted Boston Scientific medical device.
Resources and support
Have questions about the WATCHMAN Implant?
WATCHMAN Educational Specialists are trained professionals with healthcare experience.
They’re here to help answer your questions.
Monday to Friday, 8AM to 5PM Central Time
Indications:
The WATCHMAN Implant is for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem who need an alternative to blood thinners. This website is intended to provide patients and caregivers with some information about the WATCHMAN Implant. It may help prepare you for talking to your doctor about your options for reducing stroke risk.
Important Safety Information
The WATCHMAN and WATCHMAN FLX Devices are permanent implants designed to close the left atrial appendage in the heart in an effort to reduce the risk of stroke.
With all medical procedures there are risks associated with the implant procedure and the use of the device. The risks include but are not limited to accidental heart puncture, air embolism, allergic reaction, anemia, anesthesia risks, arrhythmias, AV (Arteriovenous) fistula, bleeding or throat pain from the TEE (Trans Esophageal Echo) probe, blood clot or air bubbles in the lungs or other organs, bruising at the catheter insertion site, clot formation on the device, cranial bleed, excessive bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, groin puncture bleed, hypotension, infection/pneumonia, pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, pulmonary vein obstruction, renal failure, stroke, thrombosis and transient ischemic attack. In rare cases death can occur.
Be sure to talk with your doctor so that you thoroughly understand all of the risks and benefits associated with the implantation of the device.