Heart Rhythm

Hearts should have normal rhythm to their beats, but when these beats are out of synch, it causes inefficient pumping of blood. Irregular heart arrhythmias occur when the electrical signals that coordinate the heart's beats do not work properly. This can cause beats that are too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (bradycardia). Tachycardias include atrial fibrillation (AFib), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia (VT). Bradycardias include sick sinus syndrome and conduction block. Electrophysiology arrhythmia treatments include medications, life style changes, and the EP lab interventions of catheter ablation, and implantable pacemakers or defibrillators.

cardiologist preparing to perform radiofrequency ablation

Another long-term benefit of AFib ablation: Improved mental health

A new study published in JAMA suggests catheter ablation can help AFib patients experience fewer feelings of depression and anxiety.

September 13, 2023
Matthew Latacha, MD, Methodist Health System, cardiologist

Cardiologist killed in bicycle accident remembered as a ‘talented and compassionate’ electrophysiologist

According to a loving tribute from Methodist Health System, Matthew Latacha, MD, was “well respected, admired and loved by patients, colleagues and staff.” The incident is still under investigation. 

September 11, 2023
Boston Scientific has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its Watchman FLX Pro left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) device

Boston Scientific gains FDA approval for Watchman FLX Pro LAAC device

This represents the latest iteration of the Watchman technology, which was first approved by the FDA back in 2020. 

September 7, 2023
Product Recall

FDA shares update on heart devices linked to multiple recalls and patient deaths

The devices, designed to provide temporary support to a patient's left ventricle, have been associated with a long list of issues in recent months. 

September 1, 2023

Pulsed-field ablation as safe and effective as thermal ablation when treating paroxysmal AFib

Boston Scientific, which funded the study, hopes these results can help the company gain FDA approval for its PFA device in the months ahead. 

August 28, 2023
Withings Body Scan Connected Health Station FDA cleared

FDA clears new smart scale capable of detecting AFib, other cardiovascular issues

The Body Scan Connected Health Station includes a high-strength glass platform with four weight sensors and 14 ITO electrodes and a retractable handle with four stainless steel electrodes.

August 28, 2023
amsterdam the netherlands ESC Congress 2023

ESC Congress 2023: 4 key sessions scheduled for world’s largest gathering of cardiology professionals

The four-day event in Amsterdam officially begins on Friday, Aug. 25. Read our sneak preview of some of the conference's key sessions. 

August 24, 2023
candles funeral dead respect

Beloved cardiologist Albert Waldo remembered for his lasting impact on electrophysiology

Waldo was a founding member of the North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology, which is now known as the Heart Rhythm Society, and was revered for his helpfulness and kindness.

August 23, 2023

Around the web

Eleven medical societies have signed on to a consensus statement aimed at standardizing imaging for suspected cardiovascular infections.

Kate Hanneman, MD, explains why many vendors and hospitals want to lower radiology's impact on the environment. "Taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint in healthcare isn’t just an opportunity," she said. "It’s also a responsibility."

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