Arryhthmias and Heart Rhythm Disorders

MetroHealth Heart Specialists

MetroHealth physicians specialize in electrophysiology, which is the study and science of diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders. They have additional education and expertise in subspecialties within electrophysiology, and are nationally recognized for their expertise.

Referrals from your doctor enable us to match you with the right specialist. To schedule an appointment call 216-778-BEAT (2328). For pediatric appointments call 216-778-2222.

Conditions We Treat

Heart rhythm disorders have many causes, including heart disease, blood pressure and thyroid abnormalities. Heart rhythm disorders vary in severity, ranging from passing discomfort to life-threatening conditions.

• Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter (known as a-fib)
• Ventricular and supraventricular tachycardia (racing heartbeats)
• Bradycardia (a slow heartbeat)
• Premature beats
• Syncope (fainting)
• Genetic arrhythmia disorders like long QT syndrome

Diagnosis, Treatment and Monitoring

At MetroHealth, our specialists, nurses and support staff take the time to make the right diagnosis and are with you every step of the way. We begin with a comprehensive evaluation, review your medical records, and perform a physical exam. We then determine what additional tests you might need.

MetroHealth has state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including electrocardiography (EKG), echocardiography, outpatient rhythm monitoring, genetic assays, microvolt T-wave alternans and many more. Results from these tests help our physicians diagnose your arrhythmia and help us provide a wide variety of treatment options.

Atrial Fibrillation Treatment

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart arrhythmias in adults, and can cause strokes. MetroHealth received the distinguished American Heart Association's Get-With-The-Guidelines Gold Award for atrial fibrillation treatment.

At our Atrial Fibrillation Center, you receive a complete evaluation, including an assessment of stroke risk. For most patients, medications are sufficient to reduce the risk of stroke. These medications are often referred to as blood thinners. When those medications aren't a good fit, our specialists turn to alternatives. Lariat, AtriClip and Watchman are devices that help, and we are the only hospital in Northeast Ohio that offers all three.

Other Arrhythmia Therapies Offered

Some abnormal-rhythm issues are best treated with ablation procedures. This treatment can correct an irregular heartbeat. MetroHealth has internationally recognized leaders in the field of ablation, pioneering a new approach which improves success rates. This technique has become a national focus for atrial fibrillation treatment research.

When implantable devices are the best option, our specialists perform implantation and provide follow-up care for pacemakers, cardioverter-defibrillators and more. We manage the most complicated device issues—from simple changes in device programming to state-of-the-art laser lead extraction.

Referrals from your doctor enable us to match you with the right specialist. To schedule an appointment call 216-778-BEAT (2328).