Glendale Memorial Heart Center has one of the most advanced Electrophysiology (EP) programs in the area. EP is the cardiac sub-specialty, which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders. A decade ago, the only way to manage arrhythmias was with medication. Now we have methods that not only accurately diagnose the arrhythmia, but also can safely and effectively treat and cure the problem.
Glendale Memorial's EP program also pioneered the use of the new Cartoä XP Navigation System for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. Glendale Memorial was the first to use this new technology throughout the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys.
Diagnostic Methods
There are various methods of evaluating symptoms of an arrhythmia, such as an EKG, Holter Monitor, Event Recorder, or treadmill test. When these basic tests do not provide all of the necessary information, an Electrophysiology Study (EP) will be conducted which can show what the problem is, where it is located, and what can be done to control it. An EP Study can accurately assess the heart's electrical function and allow the doctor to study the arrhythmia under controlled conditions.
Treatment of Arrhythmias
Treatment of arrhythmias depends on the type, severity of symptoms, and results of the various diagnostic tests, including the EP Study. A catheter ablation is used to treat rapid heart rhythms. This procedure is similar to the EP Study and is usually performed immediately following the Study, during the same session. A radiofrequency current is delivered through the catheter destroying the abnormal cells responsible for fast rhythms. In more than 90% of these patients, the arrhythmia will never return.
Newest Technology
Glendale Memorial Hospital is performing a breakthrough procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmia utilizing the newest equipment and technology, the Cartoä XP Navigation System. The Cartoä XP Navigation System detects the precise position of a special catheter that is temporarily inserted into the heart. This catheter transmits electrical data about the patient's heart to a system that creates a color-coded, 3D map showing the electrical "roadways" that control the heartbeat. The easy-to-read maps assist the physician in making a precise diagnosis. Once the problem area is located, the Cartoä XP Navigation System can guide a special treatment catheter using radiofrequency energy back to the problem origination point where corrective steps can be taken.
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