Atrial fibrillation (or AFIB) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm (or arrhythmia) in the United States. Afib alone may not be life-threatening, but it can be extremely bothersome and sometimes dangerous. Atrial Fibrillation is associated with a fivefold increased risk of stroke. We have one of the largest Atrial Fibrillation practice in Phoenix, Arizona. Our team of leading electrophysiologists, advanced practice nurses, technical staff, and other professionals allow us to tailor our therapy to each patient to reduce risks of stroke, eliminate symptoms, and improve overall quality of life.
Treating afib symptoms is complex. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. That’s why your care at our Atrial Fibrillation Center is tailored to your individual symptoms, heart rate response, stroke risk, heart function and other conditions. Everyone on your team — electrophysiologists, physician assistants, nurses and research coordinators — specializes in the treatment of Afib.
AZHRC and its affiliated hospitals are well equipped for state-of-the-art clinical research efforts. Research into the mechanisms underlying atrial fibrillation (AF) and new treatments for AF is being conducted at all levels. Studies typically involve clinicians, surgeons, and scientists, interacting on a frequent basis.
For more information about the Center for Atrial Fibrillation research efforts contact Sophie Raymond at AZHRC. Click here to see our current clinical trials!
The ARIZONA HEART RHYTHM CENTER is among the world’s leading diagnostic and treatment center for patients with all types of heart rhythm conditions, including atrial fibrillation. Our Atrial Fibrillation Program provides highly individualized care for patients with this disease.
Delivering individualized care means recognizing that each patient’s situation is unique. Our model of care emphasizes working closely with you, your referring physician and a team of atrial fibrillation specialists at AzHRC to develop a customized treatment plan that decreases your stroke risk and reduces or eliminates your symptoms.
Your treatment plan is based on factors such as:
Each member of your care team specializes in treating atrial fibrillation and other cardiac arrhythmias. Care teams typically include specialists such as an electrophysiologist (a cardiologist who specializes in heart rhythm conditions), an echocardiographer and a cardiac anesthesiologist, as well as nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
A team approach combined with high-volume experience enhances our ability to:
At your first visit, you will meet with one of our doctors along with a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. The doctor will conduct a physical exam and review your medical history and laboratory tests.
If more diagnostic information is needed, additional testing may be advised. Our team includes cardiologists who evaluate your heart by using advanced imaging technology capable of rendering the heart in remarkable detail.
Patient education is a cornerstone of our care model. During your first and subsequent visits, we will partner with you to ensure that you understand your condition and treatment options. We want to be sure you have the information you need to make educated decisions about your immediate and long-term care.
Our program is internationally recognized for the treatment of Atrial Fibrillation and other cardiac arrhythmias, and patients have access to the most advanced treatments.
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to restore the normal heart rhythm by inactivating the tissue that triggers and perpetuates atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias.
Our team of experts has made important contributions that have helped advance the field of catheter ablation using radiofrequency (heat) energy.
Types of catheter ablations:
To Learn More about Cardiac ablations, Ablation Technology and tools click here