New Research Shows Ablation Procedure Significantly Improves Health of Heart Failure Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
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The Heart Rhythm Program at Intermountain Medical Center sits at the forefront of advances in therapies for heart arrhythmia disorders. Historically, we have been the first in the Intermountain West to offer the latest in arrhythmia technologies, and we are one of the most experienced centers in the nation with the highest volumes:
Procedure Volumes
| Procedure |
2008 |
2009 |
| Electrophysiologic Studies (EPS) |
774 |
869 |
| Radiofrequency Ablation |
767 |
893 |
| Pacemakers |
436 |
518 |
| ICD |
303 |
330 |
Radiofrequency Ablation – Advancing Technology and Improving Patient Safety
We are a leading center in radiofrequency ablation of both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. We were the first center in the Intermountain West to offer Stereotaxis, a new and unique technology in which catheters are inserted through the veins and guided to the heart by magnets. Once catheters reach specific locations in the heart, they can be used to restore a regular heartbeat.
At our center, these procedures are performed using computer-guided catheter techniques – including the latest Stereotaxis technology, which features "point and click," "joystick," "push button," and "touch screen" modes. These capabilities allow the physician to be more precise during the ablation, making the procedure more effective and safer for patients.
A Team Approach with Multiple Therapeutic Options
Our heart rhythm program focuses on state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options for heart failure and heart arrhythmia disorders. There are various therapies offered at our center including medications, implantable defibrillators and pacemakers, radiofrequency ablation, and heart surgery (MAZE procedure). There are also various physicians, including electrophysiologists and surgeons, who work together to provide the best possible care to every individual.
Increased Follow-up for Patients with Heart Failure
Our heart rhythm experts implant and follow heart failure patients who require therapy with pacemakers and defibrillators. New remote technology allows patients to send information from their device to a heart failure nurse here at the hospital. This way, our program has a clear picture of a patient’s clinical status between visits to our center, giving us additional, reliable information to use in planning and adjusting their care.
A Leader in Research
Our team has collaborated with the Cleveland and Mayo Clinics to supervise international device and ablation trials. Together we have published extensively on the use of implantable devices and catheter ablations in esteemed scientific journals. The results have fostered a partnership and commitment to the clinical care of these patients.
Looking Forward
Recent years have seen tremendous growth and technological progress in the treatment of patients with significant arrhythmias. Our program is committed to contributing a vast amount of knowledge and expertise to the future of this field.
Clinics affiliated with the Heart Rhythm Program