CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital celebrates 500th cardiac procedure for atrial fibrillation

CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital announced today the 500th implementation of the Watchman device, a revolutionary cardiac procedure that reduces the risk of stroke for patients with atrial fibrillation (Afib).

An estimated 12.1 million Americans are affected by Afib, a condition where the heart beats irregularly, often leading to a quivering sensation, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

"We are incredibly excited to reach this milestone of 500 Watchman procedures,” said Dr. Thomas Mulhearn, interventional cardiologist with CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick. “This achievement shows the growing trust our community places in us to provide advanced, life-changing treatments. The Watchman device offers a long-term alternative to blood thinners.”

The Watchman device is a tiny implant designed to close off an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA), keeping harmful blood clots from entering the blood stream and potentially causing a stroke. By closing off the LAA with the device, patients may be able to stop taking blood thinners after the procedure.

Mulhearn said the procedure is a one time, minimally invasive treatment.

“It’s performed by inserting the device through a small incision in the upper leg and guiding it to the proper place on the heart,” he said.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes to complete.

"This milestone reflects the dedication and expertise of our team," said Dr. Jake LeBeau, interventional cardiologist with CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick. “We’re happy to offer patients an alternative to long-term blood thinners with the Watchman device. It’s a life-changing option providing them with peace of mind.”

He said patients typically go home the next day and complete blood thinner therapy for around 45 days following the procedure.

"I am proud to be a part of a team capable of providing this procedure to the southwestern Louisiana community and surrounding areas,” he said.