LAAOS-4: Combining Blood Thinners and Watchmen for Stroke Prevention

For people living with atrial fibrillation (AFib), one of the greatest concerns is the risk of stroke. Traditionally, that risk is managed with blood thinners such as Eliquis, Xarelto, or Warfarin. More recently, the WATCHMAN device has provided another option, sealing off the left atrial appendage where most clots form.

Now, a major international clinical trial — LAAOS-4— is testing what happens when we combine these two approaches, blood thinners plus WATCHMAN. Could the combination provide even stronger protection against stroke and cognitive decline?

In this episode of The Pulse Report, Dr. Shen explains:

• How LAAOS-4 builds on earlier research showing surgical closure of the left atrial appendage plus blood thinners reduces stroke risk.
• Why high-risk patients may benefit most from combining medical and device-based protection.
• What participation in the trial looks like — from randomization to minimally invasive WATCHMAN implantation to memory and brain health follow-up.
• How this global collaboration of 4,000 patients could shape the future of AFib care and stroke prevention worldwide.
• Why the Quad Cities community is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research.

This Innovation Update episode takes you inside one of the most important AFib trials underway today — and what it could mean for the way doctors and patients approach stroke prevention in the years ahead.

If you or a loved one has AFib and a high stroke risk, this episode offers clarity, context, and insights you can take to your next cardiology conversation.

Let's keep your heart — and your life — going strong and in rhythm.