WESTERN AFIB 2026 SESSION
Session 17 Roundtable: #AskWAF
11/02/2026
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Edited by Jodie Elrod
Featured is the Session 17 Roundtable entitled "AskWAF", which took place on February 28, 2027, at Western AFib 2026. With Janet K. Han, MD, FHRS (moderator) and panelists Monique Young, ACNP; Leslie Li, MD; Lama Al Jebbawi, MD; Jill Schaeffer, CRNP; Christopher Liu, MD; Will Cho, PA-C.
Clinical Summary
- AF ablation and anticoagulation: Panelists described differing practices after OCEAN, emphasizing shared decision-making and trial limitations. Some stop anticoagulation 2–3 months after ablation in patients with CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores of 0–1; prior stroke generally favors continuation. REACT-AF is evaluating wearable-guided anticoagulation.
- Watchman left atrial appendage closure: Reported regimens included full-dose anticoagulation for 6 weeks after standalone implantation and 2–3 months after concomitant ablation. Some practices use low-dose direct oral anticoagulants plus aspirin in elderly, frail patients. Bleeding history and tolerance drive selection.
- AF monitoring and timely treatment: Panelists supported pulse-check education, wearable alerts, and individualized recurrence action plans, noting that smartwatch alerts may reflect premature atrial contractions rather than AF. Discussion also emphasized timely AF referral in heart failure and consideration of early ablation for arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy.
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