Chattanooga, TN – Parkridge Medical Center has a long-standing reputation for offering patients the latest in safe, high-quality and effective solutions for treating heart disease. It is with that commitment that in 2017 Parkridge Medical Center introduced the WATCHMAN left atrial appendage closure device that reduces the risk of stroke for patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (Afib). Patients with atrial fibrillation, which effects nearly three million Americans, are at increased risk of stroke due to the potential of clots forming in the left atrial appendage.
Earlier this month, the electrophysiology laboratory team at Parkridge Medical Center celebrated their 100th WATCHMAN implant – a milestone that underscores the cardiac care team’s commitment to offering leading-edge technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
“Surpassing 100 procedures is a testament to the team’s commitment to ensuring our patients have access to the most advanced lifesaving therapies to treat Afib,” said Timothy M. Grant, MD, MBA, chief medical officer of Parkridge Health System. “Having a highly trained team is critical to good outcomes, and we believe that our WATCHMAN electrophysiology team is the most experienced in all of Chattanooga.”
Blood thinners have long been considered the gold standard for preventing strokes in patients with Afib. However, many patients cannot take blood thinners due to their potentially dangerous side effects including excessive bleeding and low blood cell counts which can cause fatigue, weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath.
Prior to the introduction of the WATCHMAN device, many patients had little or no viable alternative for preventing stroke. As part of our robust Electrophysiology Services, WATCHMAN joins the full complement of advanced heart-rhythm treatment offerings available at Parkridge Medical Center.
“Safe, high-quality care is at the forefront of all that we do here at Parkridge,” said Barry Bell, director of Cardiovascular Services at Parkridge Medical Center. “Our multidisciplinary team of cardiac specialists remain committed to offering the latest in minimally invasive treatment options that will help to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.”
Learn about reducing your stroke risk with WATCHMAN.