Health News

Unnerving Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Patients with potentially fatal heart arrhythmias often benefit from receiving an implantable cardiac defibrillator ( ICD ) because of their high risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Listen to Your Heart
Often a slow or racing heartbeat isn't a reason for concern. In some cases, however, it may suggest a heightened risk for a more serious heart condition.
Prolonging ICD Shocks Safe
A potentially fatal abnormal heartbeat means some patients need an implanted device to provide a shock when dangerous rhythms are detected. Cardiologists describe the shocking sensation "like being hit with a baseball bat in the chest."
Cardiac Ablation Superior for Afib Therapy
A new study suggests that patients with a common heart arrhythmia could be best treated with cardiac ablation -- a procedure that destroys heart tissue responsible for the heart rhythm disorder -- over drugs.
Women with Arrhythmia at Greater Stroke Risk
Women with a common abnormal heartbeat condition called atrial fibrillation are at a greater risk of stroke even if they take anticoagulants to lower their risk. This was especially true for women over the age of 75.
What is a Leadless Implantable Heart Defibrillator?
A U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel has voted 7-1 to back Cameron Health's new type of implantable heart defibrillator. It is the first defibrillator that does not require implanting an electrode near the heart.
Get Safely Scanned with a Pacemaker
Patients with implanted heart devices know getting diagnostic imaging can be tricky and even dangerous. Researchers have found a way to reprogram the devices, allowing patients to safely receive certain MRI scans.
Viewing the Heart's Electrical System in 3-D
Scientists have long had a general understanding of the cardiac conduction system, the complex electrical system in charge of muscle contractions within the heart.
Risk High During Temporary Anticoagulant Halts
Patients with certain types of atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, are at a high risk of stroke and blood clots if they temporarily stop their blood thinning medication before surgery or permanently because of side effects.
Pre-Op Statins Keep Heart Rhythmic
Cholesterol-lowering statin drugs taken pre-operatively appear to be key to reducing complications and shortening a patient's hospital stay following heart surgery.