WATCHMAN FLX device shows superior bleeding protection and matches blood thinners in stroke prevention for atrial fibrillation patients

The CHAMPION-AF trial found the WATCHMAN FLX device significantly reduces bleeding risks compared to blood thinners (NOACs) while providing similar effectiveness in preventing strokes in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). This device permanently closes the left atrial appendage, a common source of blood clots in NVAF patients. With 3,000 patients studied globally and a 99% procedural success rate, the device showed a 45% relative reduction in non-procedural bleeding and non-inferior stroke prevention over 36 months. The results, published in The New England Journal of Medicine and presented at ACC.26, may lead to updated clinical guidelines and expanded use of WATCHMAN FLX as a first-line stroke prevention option.