Abnormalities of heart rate and/or rhythm are called arrhythmias. Types of arrhythmias include bradycardia (too slow), tachycardia (too fast), atrial and ventricular fibrillation (disorganized heartbeat).
An implantable heart rhythm device is used to regulate an irregular heartbeat by sending electrical signals to the heart to alter its rhythm. These devices are surgically implanted under the skin, typically just below the collarbone. A small, battery-operated computer generates the electrical signal (pulse generator), which is transmitted to the heart via one or more electric wires (leads).
- Pacemakers - English, French, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, or Punjabi
- Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) - English, French, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese or Punjabi
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) - English, French, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese or Punjabi
- Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (S-ICD) - English
- Consider Remote Monitoring - English
- Remote Monitoring of a Heart Devices - English
An implantable heart monitor may be recommended to some people. More information about this device can be found here:
- Implantable Cardiac Monitor: A Guide for Patients and Families - English
Have you or a family member been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AF)? Information about this heart rhythm disorder can be found in these comprehensive educational resources:
Treatment for heart rhythm disorders depends upon the type and severity of the arrhythmia. Many arrhythmias are treatable with lifestyle changes and medications.
Here are educational resources about the different types of medications used for treating atrial fibrillation. Please speak with your health care practitioner about which medications, if any, are recommended for you or your family member.
For some people, minimally invasive or surgical procedures performed in a hospital offer the best option to restore a normal heart rhythm.
The following educational resources describe the different types of procedures used for treating heart rhythm disorders. Please speak with your health care practitioner about which procedures, if any, are recommended for you or your family member.
Cardioversion is a minimally invasive procedure used to restore a fast or irregular heartbeat back to normal rhythm using a low-energy electric shock.
Cardioversion - English, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, or Punjabi
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that targets faulty electrical tissue in the heart. In most cases, the diagnostic test (electrophysiology study) and the treatment (cardiac ablation) are performed as part of the same procedure.
- Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation - English, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, or Punjabi
- Ablation for Atrial Flutter - English, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, or Punjabi
- Ablation for Atrioventricular Node (AVN) - English, Farsi, Traditional Chinese, or Punjabi
- Ablation for Supraventricular Tachycardia - English
- Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia - English
