Good Samaritan Medical Center Completes First WATCHMAN FLX Pro Procedure

Good Samaritan Medical Center successfully completed its first implantation of the WATCHMAN FLX Pro Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) Device, marking another milestone in the hospital’s commitment to advancing cardiovascular care in Palm Beach County, Fla.

The device is designed to reduce stroke risk in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) who need an alternative to long-term blood thinner medications. The latest-generation device is designed to reduce the risk of device-related thrombus, deliver enhanced visualization markers for precise placement, and provide an expanded size range to treat a broader population of patients.

“WATCHMAN FLX Pro implantation represents another step forward in delivering advanced, patient-centered heart care,” said interventional cardiologist Dr. Brijeshwar Maini, director of the Center for Preventive Cardiac Medicine at Good Samaritan Medical Center. “Good Samaritan Medical Center has long been at the forefront of structural heart and cardiovascular innovation, and we are proud to offer innovative and leading-edge surgical options to our patients.” 

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and affects millions of Americans. Patients living with AFib face a significantly increased risk of stroke. The WATCHMAN FLX Pro device closes off the left atrial appendage, where most stroke-causing blood clots form in patients with non-valvular AFib, helping reduce stroke risk while potentially allowing patients to discontinue long-term blood thinner therapy.

The WATCHMAN technology is delivered through a minimally invasive, one-time procedure, with the implant remaining permanently in place and designed to help prevent blood clots from entering the bloodstream and causing a stroke.

“At Good Samaritan Medical Center, we are committed to bringing advanced, evidence-based technologies to our community,” said Sheri Montgomery, Chief Executive Officer of Good Samaritan Medical Center. “The successful completion of our first WATCHMAN FLX Pro procedure demonstrates our dedication to expanding treatment options, delivering personalized prevention strategies and improving outcomes for patients living with atrial fibrillation.”

Good Samaritan Medical Center is nationally recognized for its advanced cardiovascular services and continues to invest in innovative technologies that help patients receive care close to home.

About Good Samaritan Medical Center

Part of the Palm Beach Health Network, Good Samaritan Medical Center (GSMC) is a 333-bed acute care hospital that has provided sophisticated, personalized and emergency medical care to Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast with more than 100 years of experience. GSMC offers advanced orthopedic care, women’s care and wellness, general surgery, emergency services, urology, bariatric surgery, cardiac services, and comprehensive cancer care.

The cancer center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer and by the American College of Surgeons National Accreditation program for Breast Cancer.

GSMC utilizes robotic technologies that highlight our robust general and orthopedic surgery procedures. GSMC has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Total Hip and Knee Replacement, Shoulder Replacement and Spine Surgery, Healthgrades’ 100 Best Hospital Award for Spine Surgery and Outpatient Orthopedic Excellence.

Learn more about GSMC at PalmBeachHealthNetwork.com.