Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of arrhythmia. While once thought to be harmless, it is now known that atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke up to sevenfold.
There are a variety of approaches to treat atrial fibrillation, from medications to catheter-based ablation, as well as newer minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Illustrated here is my approach using a thoracoscope and a 2-inch of incision to apply a permanent clip to completely to occlude the left atrial appendage —(AtriClip PRO2 Device by AtriCure Corporation).
Along with a minimally invasive subxiphoid radiofrequency surgical ablation technique, patients like this 68-year-old can be restored back to normal sinus rhythm and taken off anticoagulant medications! By occluding the left atrial appendage, the risk of stroke for patients in a fib is markedly reduced!
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Pages
- Learn about heart valves. Heart Valves
- Read testimonials. Testimonials
- Did you know I have a consulting firm? Singer Heart/Lung Consulting
- Check out my TedTalk! Defining Success
Links
- Links page with more information about your heart. Links
- Dr. Adam Pick's Site: heart-valve-surgery.com
