Rhythm Disturbance

Treatments for Rhythm Disturbance:

• Radio Frequency Ablation This program takes place in our EP Lab and provides testing and treatment to patients experiencing irregular heart rhythm. Our specialists, employing pacemakers and automatic defibrillators, and using a new procedure called ablation, remove abnormal electrical pathways which cause the irregular heartbeat. This procedure can preclude the need for open-heart surgery.
• Implants
  • Pacemaker A permanent pacemaker is inserted into the patient's heart and upper chest to provide a reliable heartbeat when the heart's own rhythm is too fast, too slow, or irregular. A permanent pacemaker is usually inserted while the patient is in the electrophysiology lab.
  • Resynchronization Therapy (Biventricular Pacemaker/ICD) A new type of pacemaker, called a biventricular pacemaker, is currently used in the treatment of congestive heart failure. Sometimes in heart failure, the two ventricles (lower heart chambers) do not pump together in a normal manner. A biventricular pacemaker paces both ventricles at the same time, increasing the amount of blood pumped by the heart.
  • Implantable Defibrillator A defibrillator is inserted into the patient's heart and chest to send out a small amount of electricity when needed to jolt heart rhythm back to normal.
• Cardioversion The cardioversion procedure involves delivery of an electrical impulse to the heart. Your cardiologist or nurse will place paddles or pads on your chest. These will be connected to a small machine at your bedside, and, when activated, will deliver the electrical impulse to your heart. One impulse is usually effective in returning the heart to its normal rhythm. Occasionally, one or more slightly stronger impulses are needed.

For more information, contact The Reading Regional Heart Center: 610-988-HELP.