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Updated: Oct 3, 2025
The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Watchman Device Procedure Complicated by Rare Perclose ProGlide Embolization: Case Report and Literature Review
1Internal Medicine, Jefferson Health New Jersey, Stratford, USA.
Insights
A Watchman device procedure for atrial fibrillation (AF) was complicated by suture-mediated closure system embolism. Prompt surgical intervention successfully removed the embolism, allowing the patient
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmia associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.
- The Watchman device is utilized for stroke risk reduction in patients with AF.
- Suture-mediated closure systems are commonly used for vascular access during device implantation.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male with a history of AF on warfarin underwent Watchman device placement.
- The procedure was complicated by an embolism of the Perclose ProGlide™ Suture-Mediated Closure system.
- Initial visualization in the electrophysiology lab was inadequate.
Findings:
- Emergency consultation with vascular surgery was required.
- The patient was transferred to a hybrid operating room for emergent intervention.
- A venotomy was performed to address the embolism.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication associated with transcatheter device implantation.
- Successful emergent surgical management of device-related embolism is crucial.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration between cardiology and vascular surgery is vital for managing such complex cases.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia with significant morbidity and mortality. In this case, we present a 69-year-old man with a past medical history of atrial fibrillation on warfarin who came to the hospital for placement of the Watchman device (Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States). His procedure was complicated by Perclose ProGlide™ Suture-Mediated Closure system (Abbott Laboratories Inc., Chicago, Illinois, United States) embolism. The vascular surgery department was consulted STAT in the electrophysiology lab and was unable to fully visualize the vessel. The patient was then brought emergently to a hybrid operating room where venotomy was made. He tolerated the procedure well and was eventually discharged home.
