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Arrhythmias occur when the heart's electrical signals "short circuit." This causes uncoordinated or irregular contractions of the heart muscle. These irregular contractions can cause an abnormally slow heartbeat (bradycardia) or abnormally fast (tachycardia). Different types of arrhythmias can occur in different chambers of the heart. Afib is the most common type of arrhythmia, originating from the upper chamber (atria).

Managing Arrhythmias

At Centennial Heart, we provide comprehensive cardiac care in one location. Our EP (electrophysiology) teams work closely with surgeons and cardiologists to ensure coordination of care. If you receive a pacemaker or ICD, a dedicated nurse will follow up with all of your monitoring appointments instead of a representative from the device company. This personalized approach helps us give you the highest quality care possible.

We can help you manage arrhythmias and control symptoms with:

  • Primary and Secondary Stroke Prevention - Coordinated multidisciplinary anticoagulation clinic, left atrial appendage closure - minimally invasive percutaneous technique, epicardial, or surgical, atrial fibrillation detection - 30 day external monitoring, or implanted loop recorders
  • Rhythm Control - Medication (antiarrhythmic) management, percutaneous ablation, and hybrid, isolated, or concomitant surgical ablation
  • Rate Control - Specialized services that focus on preventing or improving heart failure
  • Anticoagulation - Blood thinning medication such as Coumadin (Warfarin) that prevents blood clots and stroke.

If heart function is interrupted, we can help restore the heart to a normal rhythm.

Some arrhythmias occur as a normal response to exercise, stress, illness or relaxation and require no treatment. However, other abnormal heartbeats can cause the heart to beat inefficiently, increasing the risk for stroke.

Types of Arrhythmias

Sinoatrial Node Arrhythmias - Occur in the heart's natural pacemaker

  • Sick sinus syndrome
  • Sinus arrhythmia
  • Sinus tachycardia
  • Sinus bradycardia

Supraventricular (atrial) Arrhythmias - Occur in the upper chambers and are more common

  • Atrial flutter
  • Supraventricular tachycardia

Ventricular Arrhythmias - Occur in the lower chamber and are more dangerous

  • Ventricular fibrillation
  • Ventricular tachycardia
  • Long QT syndrome