Atrial fibrillation (AF or A-fib) is the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). It may cause no symptoms, but it is often associated with palpitations, fainting, chest pain or congestive heart failure. However, in some people atrial fibrillation is caused by otherwise idiopathic or benign conditions.
Patients who fail to see symptom improvement with medicine may elect to undergo a surgical procedure to reset the heart’s natural rhythm. The desired outcome of surgical intervention is to establish a steady heart rate of between 60 to 100 beats per minute.
As with any heart-related procedure, atrial fibrillation surgery is a significant operation which requires a hospital stay. In the cardiac care unit, you will be under constant monitoring to assess your vitals and help ensure a speedy recovery.
After returning home from the hospital, you will receive a set of guidelines which allow you to gradually return your normal routine. Following atrial fibrillation surgery, it’s important to protect your heart by leading a healthy lifestyle.
[twocol_one]
[/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last]
[/twocol_one_last]