SPECTRUM NEWS VIDEO: Crouse Hospital is using new technology in order to treat patients with a common heart rhythm disorder. Crouse is one of the first medical centers in the region to use the new Watchman device for patients with atrial fibrillation.
Doctors say this is the latest way to treat people with a condition known as atrial fibrillation which is more simply an irregular heartbeat.
What's interesting is that the device looks like a small parachute that is inserted through a quick surgical process.
Atrial Fibrillation affects about 5 million Americans, and Crouse does see patients for the condition regularly.
It occurs when the upper and lower chambers of the heart stop beating in harmony, which makes a patient more susceptible to a stroke.
Typically, medication such as blood thinners can be used by doctors but not all patients are good candidates for that medication. The device is inserted in about a one to two hour procedure.
If you're interested in learning more you're advised to talk to your physician about the procedure.