Performed by Dr. Tuncay Taskesen, Interventional Cardiologist
A Minimally Invasive Solution for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation
What Is the Watchman Procedure?
The Watchman™ procedure, performed by Dr. Tuncay Taskesen, is a minimally invasive treatment designed to prevent stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib).
AFib can cause blood to pool in a small area of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA), where clots may form and travel to the brain. The Watchman device—a small, umbrella-shaped implant—closes off the LAA to keep clots from entering the bloodstream. This permanently reduces the risk of stroke and may eliminate the need for long-term blood-thinner therapy.
Who Is a Candidate for the Watchman Device?
You may be a candidate for the Watchman procedure if you:
- Have non-valvular atrial fibrillation
- Are at an increased risk for stroke
- Have difficulty taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications due to side effects or bleeding risk
Dr. Taskesen will perform a thorough evaluation of your health history and imaging studies to determine whether this procedure is the best option for you.
How the Watchman Procedure Works
- Access: A small catheter is inserted through a vein in your leg and guided to your heart.
- Placement: Dr. Taskesen positions the Watchman device at the opening of the left atrial appendage.
- Sealing: Once placed, the device expands to seal off the appendage and prevent clot formation.
- Healing: Over several weeks, your heart tissue naturally grows over the device, creating a permanent barrier.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients return home the next day.
Benefits of the Watchman Procedure
- Significantly reduces stroke risk associated with AFib
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery time
- Can allow patients to discontinue blood thinners after healing
- Proven long-term safety and effectiveness
- Performed by an experienced interventional cardiologist, Dr. Tuncay Taskesen
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients recover quickly and resume normal activities within a few days.
You’ll have a follow-up imaging test within several weeks to ensure proper placement and closure. Dr. Taskesen and his team will guide you through post-procedure medications and follow-up care to ensure optimal recovery.
Why Choose Cardiac and Vascular Consultants?
At Cardiac and Vascular Consultants, Dr. Tuncay Taskesen and our team of board-certified specialists provide advanced treatments for atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention.
We combine cutting-edge cardiovascular techniques with compassionate, patient-centered care. Our goal is to offer the safest, most effective treatment tailored to your individual health needs.
Request an Appointment
Take the first step toward reducing your stroke risk and improving your quality of life.
Contact Cardiac and Vascular Consultants today to learn if the Watchman procedure performed by Dr. Tuncay Taskesen is right for you.
