Atrial fibrillation can cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, shortness of breath and chest discomfort. The AMD detects and distinguishes various atrial rhythms by analyzing rhythm patterns similar to the way a physician reviews patterns shown by an electrocardiogram. The AMD is slightly larger than a pacemaker and is implanted under the skin just below the collarbone. Wires from the AMD are threaded through veins leading back to the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart. The procedure requires a local anesthetic and takes about two hours.
Hospitalization is usually for one to two days.
About 70 patients will be enrolled at 15 centers nationwide. Please visit the UPMC Health System's Cardiovascular Institute Web site for more information on cardiology services and programs.