Mercy first to offer Watchman device in NWA

Mercy Hospital in Rogers is now using the Watchman device, which is implanted in patients to prevent the formation of blood clots. It is considered an alternative to blood thinning medication used in treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart-rhythm disorder that raises the risk of stroke.

Cardiologist Dr. Amr El-Shafei at Mercy Hospital in Rogers recently implanted the Watchman devices in three patients. Mercy said it is the first health system in the region to offer Watchman.

“A stroke is very debilitating,” Dr. El-Shafei said. “We need an alternative because otherwise, we are not going to protect these patients from stroke. It’s good to have another option so that these patients can live without fear.”

Watchman is the only FDA-approved device to treat AFib. Dr. El-Shafei said AFib raises the risk for stroke by as much as five times, but in clinical trials the Watchman device lowers the risk. Nine out of 10 patients can stop taking blood thinners within 45 days of having the device implanted.

The procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes, and patients typically spend one night in the hospital and return home the next day. The one-time procedure offers lifetime protection.