Ascension Providence first in Waco to offer WATCHMAN FLX

Ascension Providence is proud to announce the expansion of its structural heart program, now offering the next-generation WATCHMAN FLX™ Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant for patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) who require blood thinning medications to reduce their risk of stroke. AFib is a common heart condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat too fast, affecting more than 5 million people worldwide.

The WATCHMAN FLX device closes off an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage to keep harmful blood clots from entering the bloodstream, potentially causing a stroke. Patients with AFib are at a greater risk of having a stroke due to formation of clots in an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage. The device is introduced into the heart via a flexible tube, or catheter, through a vein in the upper leg or groin. It is designed to capture any clots that may form in that area of the heart. This next-generation technology has a new design to help treat more patients safely and effectively to ensure the best long-term outcomes.

“In 2019, we expanded our structural heart program at Ascension Providence by launching our WATCHMAN program for patients with AFib who are at risk of having a stroke,” said Dr. Timothy Ball, cardiologist at Ascension Providence. “Today, we are excited to elevate our cutting-edge cardiac care capabilities with the next-generation WATCHMAN FLX technology.”

Previously, patients who were diagnosed with having regular blood clots were prescribed blood-thinning medications, such as Warfarin or Coumadin, to prevent them from forming. These medications have been effective in reducing the risk of stroke but may cause undesirable side effects such as bleeding. The drugs can also be affected by other factors such as diet or other medications and require patients to have their blood drawn frequently to monitor their dosage. Now, with the help of the Ascension Providence Stroke Coordinator, potential stroke patients will be identified and sent to the Valve Clinic where they will be screened as a potential WATCHMAN FLX candidate.

Ascension Providence has remained focused on developing a comprehensive structural heart program since 2011, when Ascension Providence was the first hospital in Waco to offer PFO/ASD Closures and Balloon Aortic Valvulopathy. In 2019, Ascension Providence launched the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) program as the only TAVR program in Waco. Later that year, Ascension Providence expanded the Structural Heart Program to offer WATCHMAN. Additionally, Ascension Providence recently invested $6 million in Catheterization Laboratory upgrades, providing state-of-the-art technology and procedure rooms.