AFib and the Watchman Device with Dr. Douglas Gibson | San Diego Health

Director of cardiac electrophysiology, Douglas Gibson, MD, and his patient David Brush explain what you need to know about atrial fibrillation, blood thinners and how an innovative device called the Watchman changed David's life. Get a free heart rhythm guide: bit.ly/6349yt
0:52 - What is atrial fibrillation (AFib) ?
3:17 - How does afib lead to a stroke? What do blood thinners do?
6:13 - What is a catheter ablation?
9:09 - What is the Watchman? Who is a candidate for the procedure?
16:42 - How to find the right cardiologist

[@ericmsellers3907]

My Grandmother has been having issues with hear heart, and is scheduled for a Watchman Procedure. We watched this video together, and it really helped us both understand the procedure, side effects and helped us identify problems that she was having. This also helped put both our minds at ease about how the procedure works and what to look forward to after it is done. Thank you, I hope it helps many others with a tech impaired grandparent.

[@Sushi2735]

I had a silent AFib and would just pass out. We couldn’t catch one on the monitor. So went to the Electrophysiologist, had the first ablation and was great for 15yrs. It started again and had second ablation. Was scheduled to get the Watchman. It was really not explained well so I canceled the surgery date. After watching this I’m going to get it done. I don’t have AFib now, but am on Eliquis.
That is why watching this with the gentleman who had ablation too. I’m unsteady on my feet, so I’m doing it! THANK YOU,

[@scrippshealth]

We're so glad to hear you're doing well!

[@Sushi2735]

@@scrippshealth , too kind! Watchman procedure now scheduled October 10th.
You made a big difference! My doctor is go, go, go, go, and he figures you get it..when in fact you don’t!
Glad you are doing so beautifully. I hope when I get off all the medication I will be too?
Thank you for sharing your story. All the best to you both!!!

[@nrcg2317]

It's my turn tomorrow at 9:30 am. It's a little scary, but I know long-term use of anticoagulants is not the answer for me. I'm glad I watched this account from a patient's perspective, in addition to a medical expert.

[@scrippshealth]

We hope you're doing well since your procedure!

[@DennisElliott-h1c]

Do you get to stop Beta Blockers?

[@barbaraduenas702]

I was scheduled to get a watchmen procedure but because there was a blockage when a camera was inserted through mouth. What kind of blockage could this could be?

[@scrippshealth]

Hi Barbara, the clinician that performed this for you will be best suited to answer your question!

[@TheHuester44]

Hello , I developed persistent Afib in 2020 after having Covid in 2020.
I had an ablation in early 2021 then another in July of 2023 .
I then had a watchman device implanted in March of 2024 . I’m scheduled to get off plavix and a baby aspirin in August.
I’m wondering if flying long distance for example from LAX to Brisbane Australia would be safe .
I plan on asking my cardiologist the same question my next visit but just wanted another opinion. I’m a 72 yr old male in otherwise good health.

[@scrippshealth]

Hi there, your cardiologist is the best person to assist you with this.