A trio of cardiology groups is urging regulators not to proceed with a proposed 27% cut to Medicare reimbursement for a controversial procedure to prevent strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib).

The payment protest comes amid an ongoing recall of the device, called Watchman, over concerns of fatal air embolisms in some people who undergo the procedure without the use of positive pressure-controlled ventilation. Boston Scientific has reported 120 serious injuries and 17 deaths associated with the problem through July 30, according to the FDA. The warning does not apply to people who already have the device in place.

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion or closure ( LAAO or LAAC ), is an option for patients who wish to avoid, or who cannot take, long-term oral an

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