Health & Fitness
Franciscan Health offers new technology for AFib patients
New implant now available at Olympia Fields hospital can eliminate the need for long-term blood thinners for those with atrial fibrillation
A procedure now offered at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields can allow cardiac patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) to eliminate the use of long-term blood thinners and live more active lifestyles.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), AFib is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. The CDC estimates 6 million Americans have Afib, which significantly increases the risk of stroke.
One of the primary treatments for AFib is blood thinners, which are used to prevent blood clots that travel to the brain and cause strokes. While blood thinners are effective, they come with bleeding risks, which can be difficult for those with active lifestyles.
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“Our patients with Afib now have another option that can help them live more active lives without the fear and risks associated with taking blood thinners for life,” said Heart & Vascular Institute Medical Director Omar Hamoui, MD. “We are thrilled to be able to provide this procedure to eligible patients.”
As of mid-August, Franciscan Health Olympia Fields offers the WATCHMAN procedure. During this one-time, minimally invasive procedure, a Franciscan Health clinical cardiac electrophysiologist and interventional cardiologist use a catheter to guide the WATCHMAN implant to the patient’s left atrial appendage (LAA) in the heart through a small incision in the inner thigh. By permanently closing the LAA, the WATCHMAN device prevents clots from forming in the prime location that can lead to stroke.
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Patients can expect to return home the next day and will continue taking blood thinners until the LAA is permanently closed, typically for about 45 days.
“Franciscan Health Olympia Fields is proud to expand our offerings with the addition of the WATCHMAN procedure,” Franciscan Health Olympia Fields President and CEO Raymond Grady said. “Our cardiac patients can be confident knowing they have state of the art options performed with compassionate care close to home.”
More information about the WATCHMAN procedure is available on the Franciscan Health website. To schedule an appointment for a consultation, contact Watchman Coordinator Martha Drake, NP, at (219) 934-4080 or Martha.Drake@franciscanalliance.org.
