Hyderabad, June 17, 2025 – Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad, has successfully performed a Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) procedure using the Watchman device on a 65-year-old female patient at elevated risk of stroke due to atrial fibrillation and multiple heart clots.
Atrial fibrillation increases the likelihood of blood clots forming in the heart’s left atrial appendage, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. The patient was not a candidate for long-term blood-thinning medication because of other medical conditions. Given these risks, the cardiac team selected the Watchman device as an alternative approach to reduce the chance of stroke.
The Watchman device is a small, parachute-shaped implant that seals off the left atrial appendage, the primary site of clot formation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Once in place, the device prevents clots from entering the bloodstream, thereby lowering the risk of stroke. Over time, heart tissue grows over the implant, making it a permanent part of the heart’s structure.
The minimally invasive procedure was led by Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, who guided the device through a catheter inserted via the leg vein and positioned it in the heart using advanced imaging. The intervention was completed in under an hour, with minimal recovery time and without the need for open-heart surgery.
Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar stated, “The Watchman device provides a long-term stroke prevention option for patients who cannot take blood thinners safely. This technology represents a significant advancement in cardiac care.”
Madhvi Khurana, Chief Operating Officer, added, “This case demonstrates how Gleneagles Hospitals integrates advanced technology and clinical expertise to deliver personalized, life-saving care.”
MD. Ayub, Vice President – Business Development & New Initiatives, remarked, “Our commitment to precision and patient-centric interventions is reflected in each case. We continue to adopt innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes.”
The patient is stable and recovering well under observation. Gleneagles Hospitals remains committed to advancing cardiac care through evidence-based, tailored treatment options.
