Expanding Access to Advanced Cardiac Care in the Community
JULY 15 2026 — Broward Health North has successfully performed its first Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) procedure using the Watchman FLX Pro device, marking a significant milestone in the hospital’s ongoing expansion of advanced cardiovascular services.
“Our goal is to ensure that patients across the northeast region of Broward County have access to the most advanced cardiac treatment options available,” said Jonathan Nives, M.D., a cardiologist specializing in electrophysiology with the Broward Health Physician Group. “Bringing LAAO procedures to Broward Health North represents another important step forward in delivering comprehensive cardiovascular care.”
The LAAO procedure offers an important treatment option for patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib), particularly those seeking an alternative to long-term use of blood-thinning medications. “By closing the left atrial appendage, where the majority of AFib-related blood clots form, the procedure is designed to significantly reduce the risk of stroke without the need for blood thinners,” said Dr. Nieves.
This milestone follows the recent launch of Broward Health North’s advanced electrophysiology program, and further demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to providing innovative, patient-centered cardiac care for our communities.
For more information about Broward Health’s cardiovascular services, visit BrowardHealth.org/Heart.
