Atrial fibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rate that causes poor blood flow, decreased cardiac output, and the risk of stroke. Treatments include medications, electric cardioversion, and catheter ablation. Unfortunately, one of the challenges of atrial fibrillation is that the therapies aren’t always completely successful in returning a patient’s heart rhythm back to normal, leaving a patient at continued risk for blood clots developing in the heart that can escape and lead to embolic strokes.
Minimally invasive heart surgery for atrial fibrillation can be an important addition to medications and catheter-based ablation therapies. In addition, placement of an AtriCure left atrial clip can allow a patient to eliminate the need for blood thinners, even in cases of persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation.
This patient’s story illustrates the benefit and safety of the minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Recent Posts
Should We Be Afraid of AI?
Should we be afraid of AI? Dr. Scott Silverstein, a pioneer in medical informatics, shares why human judgment, experience, and responsible innovation matter more than ever.
Extraordinary Care Around the Clock
While most of us are sleeping, the cardiac surgery night crew at Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital is working tirelessly to keep patients safe, supported, and cared for. Their dedication, compassion, and teamwork make extraordinary care possible around the clock.
Not Every Patient With Aortic Stenosis Is Best Served by the Least Invasive Approach
Not every patient with aortic stenosis is best served by the least invasive approach. For this 68-year-old patient, severe aortic stenosis and critical coronary artery disease made surgical valve replacement and CABG the right choice.
When the Right Heart Valve Changes: A Fourth Operation After 14 Years
A patient’s remarkable valve history led to a fourth open-heart operation, not because her mechanical valve failed, but because her medical circumstances changed.
Sleep Apnea and Your Heart: Why Your Sleep Matters
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring or feeling tired. Untreated sleep apnea can put stress on the cardiovascular system, making sleep an important part of taking care of your heart.
Congratulations to Anastasia Arce, PA-C, on the APC Excellence Award
Congratulations to Anastasia Arce, PA-C, on receiving the Jefferson Health APC Excellence Award. Anastasia is an invaluable member of our Cardiac Surgery team, and this recognition is so well deserved.
Featured
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
