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Updated: Jun 13, 2025
The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Surgical Removal of a Migrated WATCHMAN Device
Andrew G Saleeb1, Juan M Farina1, Asher Jenkins1
1Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, US.
Insights
The WATCHMAN device can reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation patients. However, this case highlights a rare complication: device migration requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) increases stroke risk.
- Oral anticoagulation is standard but not suitable for all NVAF patients.
- The WATCHMAN device offers an alternative for stroke risk reduction in NVAF.
Observation:
- A case of WATCHMAN device migration is presented.
- Device migration is a rare but serious procedural complication.
- This migration necessitated surgical retrieval.
Findings:
- The WATCHMAN device, intended for stroke prevention in NVAF, can migrate post-implantation.
- Surgical retrieval may be required to manage WATCHMAN device migration.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance for rare complications.
Implications:
- Awareness of potential WATCHMAN device migration is crucial for interventional cardiologists.
- Further research may explore optimal strategies for preventing or managing device migration.
- This case contributes to the understanding of rare adverse events associated with left atrial appendage closure devices.
Abstract:
The WATCHMAN™ atrial appendage closure device is designed to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who are not suitable candidates for long-term oral anticoagulation therapy. However, the device also carries small risks, including procedural complications such as device migration, embolization, or pericardial effusion. We describe a case of WATCHMAN device migration requiring surgical retrieval.
