Developed less than two years ago, the tiny device is implanted into the patient's chest with electrical leads inserted into the heart. When it detects a rapid, irregular heart rhythm, it delivers a small jolt, restoring a normal rhythm immediately and effectively.
Atrial fibrillation is the most frequently occurring arrhythmia.
It affects more than one million Americans. It accounts for more hospitalizations than any other heart rhythm disorder. Many people give up favorite activities such as swimming and jogging, afraid that exercise will cause their heart to beat erratically. They may also experience weakening of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure. In the past, people with atrial fibrillation were treated with complex medications.