Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly. During AFib, the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria) quiver instead of beating properly to effectively move blood into the heart’s two lower chambers (the ventricles). AFib can cause blood to pool and clot. If a blood clot enters the bloodstream, it can travel to the brain and result in a stroke. Approximately 95 percent of strokes that occur in patients with AFib are from clots that form in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Many patients are prescribed a blood thinner like warfarin to lower the risk of stroke, however, some patients experience unwanted side effects from long-term blood thinner therapy.
The WATCHMAN™ device is the first of its kind alternative treatment for AFib used to reduce stroke risk without the need for medication. The device is designed to close the left atrial appendage and prevent blood clots from entering the bloodstream. Over time, heart tissue grows over the device and it becomes a permanent part of the body.
Saddleback Medical Center is proud to be one of the first hospitals in Orange County to offer the WATCHMAN™ device as an alternative treatment to blood thinners for patients with non-valvular AFib.
MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute specializes in minimally invasive heart procedures. With these innovative techniques, patients benefit from fewer complications, less scarring, greater comfort and faster recoveries. Distinguished as a leading heart and vascular institute.
This setting allows you to view available services and providers associated with your preferred location. You can change this setting at any time.
Cookies are required to view location-specific content.
We’ve developed a new tool on our website allowing you to see content most relevant to you and your preferred location. It’s our way of making the information you need, more personalized.
You’ll find this feature labeled “Set My Location” throughout the website. Most often, you’ll see it in the top left corner of every page.
You’ll also find a feature that allows you to set your location temporarily, as seen below.