Livingston, N.J.-based Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center cardiologists recently completed their 500th left atrial appendage closure device implant for patients with atrial fibrillation, TapIntoLivingston reported Oct. 12.
The RWJBarnabas Health facility performed its first procedure in 2017. It's one of two facilities in the area to hit the milestone.
Watchman, the left atrial appendage closure device, closes off the left atrial appendage to prevent clots from entering. The device is an alternative treatment for lifelong blood thinners for people with cases of Afib not caused by a heart valve problem.