North Alabama Medical Center Celebrates 200th Watchman Case

FLORENCE, Ala., – North Alabama Medical Center (NAMC) recently celebrated another milestone procedure in its cardiac catheterization lab. North Alabama Cardiology’s electrophysiology team at NAMC successfully completed its 200th WATCHMAN procedure for patients with atrial fibrillation (Afib), a common heart rhythm disorder affecting millions of Americans. This milestone signifies the program’s standing as one of the most advanced and comprehensive in the region.

Dr. Oluwole Adegbala, MD, MPH, performed the landmark 200th procedure, showcasing NAMC and North Alabama Cardiology’s capabilities of treating its patients with the latest in advanced technologies.

“Reaching our 200th WATCHMAN case demonstrates the hard work and quality care of our electrophysiology program, which is committed to helping patients with atrial fibrillation get their lives back,” says Dr. Adegbala. “The WATCHMAN device is an excellent option for reducing the risk of stroke without blood thinners in these patients.”

The WATCHMAN device is a small device implanted in the heart’s left atrial appendage, which is where the vast majority of blood clots form and cause strokes in Afib patients. The device, which is inserted through a minimally invasive procedure, offers an alternative to long-term anticoagulant therapy, providing stroke protection while potentially reducing bleeding risks associated with blood thinner medications.

The device occludes, or closes, the left atrial appendage to prevent clots from forming and entering the bloodstream. Over time, heart tissue grows over the implanted device, making it a permanent part of the body.

In July of 2024, NAMC became the first hospital in northwest Alabama to implant the WATCHMAN FLX™ Pro Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Dr. Tom McElderry successfully completed the first case.

“Patients who would benefit from treatment with the WATCHMAN device include those with Afib who are at high risk for stroke and have an increased risk of bleeding complications from blood thinner medications,” added Dr. Adegbala. “Most patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life as they report less bruising in their arms and legs and not needing to worry about missing their daily dose of blood thinners.”

Offering the latest in advanced technologies, North Alabama Medical Center has a dedicated Cath Lab equipped with the latest technology and staffed by nationally recognized physicians to provide the complete continuum of cardiovascular care. North Alabama Cardiology offers a comprehensive range of services for patients with cardiac disorders, including diagnostic testing, device implementation, and follow-up care.