Managing Atrial Fibrillation
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The Atrial Fibrillation Center is a comprehensive disease management program dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation. With a multidisciplinary approach, the team develops individualized treatment plans ranging from antiarrhythmic medication therapy and advanced ablation techniques to lifestyle modification. Close collaboration between electrophysiology doctors, cardiologists and primary care physicians ensures that the highest level of care is provided to each patient.
Treatment Options
Cardioversion is a procedure used to return an abnormal heartbeat to a normal rhythm. It is typically an elective treatment option for patients who experience irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation. It is a procedure performed under anesthesia, in which a precisely controlled shock is delivered to the heart to return to a regular rhythm.
One of the most effective treatments for atrial fibrillation is catheter ablation (also called pulmonary vein isolation). The procedure is done with patients under general anesthesia. A catheter (thin, hollow tube) is used to destroy, or ablate, the tissue of the heart that is sending the abnormal signals causing the atrial fibrillation. An advanced mapping system allows the electrophysiology doctor to create a computerized picture of the heart. The doctor is then able to see the catheter on the computer model as it destroys the abnormal cells causing the atrial fibrillation.
A convergent procedure combines the skills of a cardiothoracic surgeon and an electrophysiologist (heart rhythm doctor) to treat symptomatic, persistent atrial fibrillation. The procedure utilizes radiofrequency to block irregular electrical signals by producing lesions, or scar tissue, on the heart. Convergent surgery may be recommended for the following:
- Patients with chronic atrial fibrillation
- Patients who have not been successful with other atrial fibrillation treatments
- Patients with structural heart disease
The Watchman device is a permanent implant designed to close the left atrial appendage (LAA) to prevent clots from entering the bloodstream and reduce the risk of stroke. The Watchman is a parachute-shaped device that is implanted with a minimally invasive procedure. The device is inserted percutaneously (through the skin) and a catheter (thin, hollow tube) is inserted into a vein in the leg. The device is then guided to the heart and opens like an umbrella to close the LAA. Once the device is in place, a thin layer of tissue grows over it in about 45 days. Patients may take a blood thinner for a period of time after the Watchman.
- Cardiac rehab
- Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Losing weight
- Limiting alcohol
- Treating sleep apnea
Doctors may recommend medications based on the type of arrythmia being treated, medical history and current medications and medical conditions.