Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center completes its 500^th WATCHMAN™ procedure, the latest milestone in the hospital’s history of cardiac care.

The WATCHMAN™ procedure is a one-time, minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) by closing off the left atrial appendage, the main source of blood clots that can lead to stroke. AFib patients have a five times greater risk of stroke and are often prescribed long-term blood thinners, which can carry potentially serious side effects. The WATCHMAN™ offers an important alternative by providing permanent protection without the same bleeding risks associated with ongoing blood thinner use.

At Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, the procedure is performed by a dedicated team of highly skilled cardiac electrophysiologists, including:

• Dr. Augusto Villa
• Dr. Matthew Kolek
• Dr. Matthew Klein
• Dr. Jacob Litwinczuk
• Dr. Mark Freher
• Dr. Marcelo Jimenez
• Dr. Jason Applebaum

“Our team is proud to celebrate this milestone, which reflects the advanced expertise and dedication of our physicians, nurses, and staff,” said Erik Cazares, CEO of Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. “Reaching 500 WATCHMAN™ procedures shows how deeply committed we are to bringing leading-edge cardiovascular care to Palm Beach County, giving patients more options and better outcomes close to home.”

Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center continues to be recognized as a leader in cardiovascular services, offering a comprehensive range of advanced treatments and procedures for heart health.

About Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center

Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center (PBGMC), part of the Palm Beach Health Network, the largest health care network in Palm Beach County, is a 199-bed acute care hospital. It has served the Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast communities for over 50 years. The hospital was the first in Palm Beach County to perform open-heart surgery and has remained on the forefront as one of the area’s leaders in cardiac care. PBGMC also offers award winning stroke care, neurosurgery, urology, orthopedics, robot assisted and minimally invasive surgical techniques, bloodless medicine and a 24-hour emergency room. For more information, visit: www.palmbeachhealthnetwork.com.