Improving stroke prevention for older adults with atrial fibrillation using a new device

Optimizing stroke prevention for older adults with atrial fibrillation: Towards rigorous evaluation and judicious application of a new device

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10760219

This study is looking at whether the Watchman device can help older adults with atrial fibrillation avoid strokes better than traditional blood thinners, especially for those who have trouble sticking to their medication, and it aims to find out who would benefit the most from using this device.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10760219 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of the Watchman device as an alternative to traditional blood-thinning medications for preventing strokes in older adults with atrial fibrillation. The study aims to compare the device's performance against current therapies and no treatment, focusing on patients who struggle with medication adherence. By analyzing a large database of patient claims, the research seeks to develop personalized tools that identify which patients would benefit most from the Watchman device. This approach aims to enhance treatment decisions and optimize patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who may have difficulty adhering to traditional anticoagulant therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or those who are already effectively managed with current anticoagulant therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective stroke prevention option for older adults with atrial fibrillation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar devices for stroke prevention, but this specific comparison with NOACs is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.