Atrial Fibrillation
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation (AFib):
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, characterized by rapid and irregular electrical impulses in the atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This chaotic electrical activity results in an irregular and often rapid heartbeat, which can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.
Diagnosis: Diagnosing atrial fibrillation typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as electrocardiography (ECG), Holter monitoring, event monitoring, or echocardiography. These tests help identify the presence of AFib, determine its type and severity, and assess the risk of associated complications such as stroke.
Advanced Treatment Options: At our facility, we offer a range of advanced treatment options for atrial fibrillation, tailored to each patient’s specific needs:
Medication Management: Medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners), rate control medications, and rhythm control medications may be prescribed to manage AFib and reduce the risk of complications such as stroke or heart failure. Our experienced cardiologists carefully select and monitor medication regimens to achieve optimal heart rhythm control and minimize side effects.
Catheter Ablation: Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat atrial fibrillation by targeting and destroying the abnormal heart tissue responsible for the irregular electrical signals. During the procedure, a catheter is guided to the heart, and radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy is used to create scars that interrupt the abnormal electrical pathways, restoring normal heart rhythm.
Electrical Cardioversion: Electrical cardioversion is a procedure used to restore normal heart rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation by delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart through paddles or electrodes placed on the chest. This procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia and can effectively convert AFib to normal sinus rhythm in many cases.
Implantable Devices: For patients with recurrent or high-risk atrial fibrillation, implantable devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be recommended. These devices continuously monitor the heart’s rhythm and deliver electrical impulses or shocks to regulate abnormal heartbeats and prevent complications.
