Kadlec Now Offering Revolutionary Heart-Stroke Prevention Procedure

The Watchman device could eliminate the need for blood thinners for some patients.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Washington is now offering a new procedure using the Watchman device, a quarter-sized mesh implant that can help prevent strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation by blocking blood from pooling in a part of the heart. The device is inserted through a catheter in the groin and attached to the heart with minimal disruption, potentially eliminating the need for blood thinners for some patients.

Why it matters

Atrial fibrillation, or irregular heartbeat, is a major risk factor for strokes, and many patients with a-fib are prescribed blood thinners to reduce clot risk. The Watchman device provides an alternative treatment option that could allow some patients to avoid the need for lifelong blood thinners and their associated risks and side effects.

The details

The Watchman device is about the size of a quarter and is used to prevent blood from pooling in the left atrial appendage, a small pouch in the heart where clots can form in patients with a-fib. The device is inserted through a catheter in the groin and attached to the heart. Doctors say the Watchman does not cure a-fib, but can greatly reduce stroke risk for those who do not respond well to blood thinners.

  • The Watchman device was first approved by the FDA in 2015.
  • The device began being utilized heavily in 2019.

The players

Kadlec Regional Medical Center

A hospital in Richland, Washington that is now offering the Watchman heart procedure.

Dr. Abelazim Hasim

An interventional cardiologist at Kadlec who will be performing the Watchman implant procedure.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“People in our area have had to travel to Seattle or Spokane to have this procedure done, now they can have it done here at Kadlec.”

— Dr. Abelazim Hasim, Interventional Cardiologist

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new Watchman device procedure at Kadlec provides a promising alternative treatment option for patients with atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of stroke but do not respond well to traditional blood thinners, potentially eliminating the need for lifelong medication and its associated risks.