Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute at St. David’s Medical Center To Host Free Atrial Fibrillation Seminar

Seminar to Address Latest Options for Correcting Atrial Fibrillation, A Heart Rhythm Disorder that Affects Millions

AUSTIN, Texas — On Thursday, September 10, 2009, the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute (TCAI) at St. David’s Medical Center will host a free seminar about the most effective ways to treat and correct Atrial Fibrillation (A Fib), a heart rhythm disorder.

Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) are problems that affect the electrical system, or “wiring,” of the heart muscle. Heart arrhythmias are very common, and millions of people will experience an abnormal heart rhythm during their lives.

A Fib, the most common type of irregular heartbeat, affects about 2.2 million people in the United States.

“Symptoms of A Fib can include shortness of breath and lightheadedness,” Shane Bailey, M.D., an electrophysiologist at TCAI, said. “While the symptoms are often mild, A Fib can lead to stroke if it’s not diagnosed and properly treated.”

TCAI is one of the world’s most comprehensive centers dedicated to the latest treatment advances for correcting A Fib. It is led by Dr. Andrea Natale, a world-renowned expert on abnormal heart rhythms such as A Fib. Natale is at the forefront of the advancement of treatment for A Fib, leading numerous clinical trials and participating in the development of new technologies and procedures.

TCIA is a partnership between St. David’s HealthCare and the physician group, Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia.

The seminar will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2009, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, located at 3003 Northland Drive (off of MoPac at 2222) in Austin. The seminar will feature Dr. Bailey, a cardiac electrophysiologist at TCAI. It is open to the public.

To register for the free seminar, call 512.544.AFIB (2342).