UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Hamot Performs 500th WATCHMAN Procedure
July 18, 2024
The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Hamot recently performed their 500th WATCHMAN™ implant procedure. UPMC experts Jean Moubarak, MD; Kelly Hayes, MD, PhD; Madhurmeet Singh, DO; and John Wertz, MD, each contributed significantly to achieving this milestone.
The WATCHMAN implant is a device used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) as an alternative to long-term blood thinner therapy. During this minimally invasive procedure, a small device is implanted into the left atrial appendage of the heart to seal it off and prevent blood clots from forming, lowering the risk of stroke. UPMC cardiologists and electrophysiologists collaborate to visualize the heart under ultrasound to assist in the deployment of the device.
This one-time procedure eliminates the increased risk of bleeding and the potential dizziness and physical weakness associated with long-term use of blood thinners.
“This device allows us to protect our patients from potential strokes and stop the adverse effects of long-term blood thinner use,” says Dr. Moubarak. “At UPMC Hamot, we are incredibly proud of this milestone and look forward to continuing to provide specialized care to each patient that walks through our doors.”
UPMC was the first to offer WATCHMAN in the western Pa. region, performing the first procedure in 2016. The system now offers the procedure at hospitals across the footprint.
Specialized Atrial Fibrillation Care at UPMC
At the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, we have a comprehensive team of cardiovascular experts dedicated to providing innovative, high-quality care for patients with atrial fibrillation.
We provide specialized services through our Atrial Fibrillation Clinic at UPMC Hamot. Services we offer include:
- Outpatient AFib follow-up for ER visits.
- Consults and referrals from the ER or PCPs.
- AFib tests and screenings.
- Patient and family resources.
To learn more about the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Hamot, or to refer a patient, call 814-877-9700.
