By Anjali Athavaley Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES NEW YORK -(Dow Jones)- Patients with irregular heart rhythm who are unable to take the standard therapy of warfarin experienced reduced risk of stroke following treatment with a device marketed by Boston Scientific Corp. (BSX), according to data from an trial released Friday. The multicenter company-funded study evaluated 150 patients implanted with Boston Scientific's device, called Watchman, and treated with dual antiplatelet therapy for six months post procedure. Patients saw a 75% reduction in risk of stroke. Atrial fibrillation, a condition that disrupts the ability of the heart to beat regularly and pump blood efficiently, affects about 15 million patients world-wide. Those who have the disorder are at greater risk of stroke because of clots formed in the left atrial appendage, a muscular pouch connected to the left atrium of the heart. Blood thinners like warfarin have traditionally been used to reduce stroke risk. The device, an alternative to long-term use of warfarin, is designed to close the left atrial appendage and prevent clots from forming. The device is available in Europe. Boston Scientific expects to complete enrollment in a U.S. trial designed to gain Food and Drug Administration approval in the second quarter of this year. "This is one of our growth initiatives," said Dr. Kenneth Stein, chief medical officer for cardiac rhythm management at Boston Scientific. "We see this as a major growth market in terms of meeting a global unmet medical need." Boston Scientific shares have risen nearly 18% in 2012 and closed Thursday at $6.28. -By Anjali Athavaley, Dow Jones Newswires; 212-416-4912; anjali.athavaley@dowjones.com
