Physicians and cardiovascular staff celebrate the 100th WATCHMAN procedure at Fairfield Medical Center
FMC Celebrates 100th WATCHMAN Procedure to Reduce Stroke Risk
Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly treated abnormal heart rhythm in the nation – and it’s associated with a notable increase in stroke risk. For many individuals living with the condition, treatment includes taking anticoagulants, or blood thinners, to help prevent this potentially debilitating complication. Beginning in 2024, however, Fairfield Medical Center took stroke prevention one step further by offering a new, minimally invasive procedure called the WATCHMAN FLX Pro. Now, they are celebrating – and quickly exceeding – a major milestone.
“Before its addition at FMC, patients were tasked with traveling to Columbus or West Virginia for this service,” said interventional cardiologist John Lazarus, MD, PhD. “As we celebrate the past year and the completion of our 100th WATCHMAN, it’s an achievement that reflects Fairfield Medical Center’s continued commitment to caring for patients close to home: In their community, near their loved ones and by doctors they trust.”
This intervention, which is performed similarly to a heart catheterization, involves placing a small, durable plug in a specific section of the heart, known as the left atrial appendage (LAA). By blocking this structure – which is prone to the formation of blood clots due to the heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently during atrial fibrillation – the chance of stroke is significantly reduced.
“Blood clots associated with the LAA can travel to the brain quickly if they break loose,” explained Jonathan Forquer, DO, preventive cardiologist with Fairfield Healthcare Professionals Cardiology. “By offering this procedure, we are essentially eliminating the problem area and protecting the long-term health of patients with atrial fibrillation, particularly those who are unable to take blood thinners as directed.”
Individuals with atrial fibrillation who are at increased risk for bleeding – including a history of gastric ulcers or clotting disorders – are considered excellent candidates for LAA closure therapy. In the future, procedure eligibility may even expand to those who are unable or unwilling to maintain consistent use of anticoagulant medications.
Symptoms of atrial fibrillation may come and go. If you are experiencing unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath or heart palpitations, or if you suspect atrial fibrillation due to family history, talk with your primary care provider about cardiac evaluation. Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and would like to evaluate stroke risk and prevention, contact FHP Cardiology at 740-689-4480.
FHP Cardiology offers follow-up and consultation services in Amanda, Lancaster, Logan, Millersport and New Lexington.