Eliminating Heart Rhythm Disturbances
Penn Cardiac Care electrophysiologists, physicians
who specialize in heart rhythm disturbances, have
found an effective technique in curing a common,
but serious condition known as atrial fibrillation
(A-Fib).
Patients with A-Fib often suffer a rapid heartbeat,
palpitations, weakness, shortness of breath and fatigue
due to changes in the heart’s rhythm. The disease may
begin with occasional bouts of an irregular heartbeat,
but over time, will often progress; early evaluation
and treatment are key.
Traditionally, doctors treat A-Fib by applying an electrical
shock to the chest to stop the A-Fib and then drug therapy
to prevent subsequent episodes. In order to maintain
an adequate heart rate, a pacemaker may be required
in some cases. These techniques do not cure, nor eliminate
the need for medications to prevent A-Fib. Blood thinners
are typically required to prevent a stroke with recurrences
of A-Fib.
The Penn Cardiac Care Electrophysiology Program
is one of the few in the region to offer patients
a new treatment option for A-Fib called ablation.
With this procedure, our doctors can identify
the specific triggers or “hot spots,” which disturb
the normal heart rate. These triggers are rapidly
and effectively targeted and isolated with the
use of sophisticated electrical recording and
ablation equipment. “By locating and isolating
triggers early, we can prevent the progression
of A-Fib and preserve the heart’s natural ability
to beat regularly,” says Andrea
M. Russo, MD, director of the Electrophysiology
Laboratory at Penn Cardiac Care at Presbyterian
Medical Center.
According to Francis
E. Marchlinski, MD, director of Cardiac Electrophysiology
at the University of Pennsylvania Health System, "This
procedure can cure A-Fib completely, allowing patients
to resume their lives without relying on mechanical
devices such as a pacemaker or any form of medication,
including blood thinners. We’re excited by the effectiveness
and low complication rates associated with this new
technique."
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