Thromboembolism after WATCHMAN^TM in a clopidogrel non‐responder: A case for concern?

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with an increased risk of stroke and thromboembolism (TE). The WATCHMAN left atrial appendage (LAA) closure device is indicated to reduce the risk of TE from the LAA in patients with non-valvular AF. Here, we present a case of a patient with device-related thrombus who suffered a TE event two months after WATCHMAN LAA closure and two weeks after switching from aspirin plus warfarin to aspirin plus clopidogrel therapy. Laboratory investigation identified the patient to be hypercoagulable and to be a non-responder to clopidogrel therapy. We discuss the potential role of platelet function testing to prevent device-related thrombi.