Center of Excellence
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Program Overview
Our multidisciplinary team includes experts in Electrophysiology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiology, Neurology, Stroke Medicine, and Cardiac Imaging, working together to deliver personalized care. We offer advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive procedures, and long-term rhythm management strategies to help patients regain control of their heart health and reduce the risk of AFib-related events.
Our mission is to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life through compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
What Is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that originates in the upper chambers of the heart (atria). Instead of beating in a coordinated manner, the atria quiver, which can lead to poor blood flow and increase the risk of clot formation.
AFib may be paroxysmal (comes and goes), persistent, or permanent, and symptoms can range from palpitations and fatigue to dizziness and shortness of breath. In some cases, AFib may go unnoticed until complications arise.
Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to reducing these risks and supporting long-term heart health.
Conditions We Treat
At the AFib Center of Excellence, we care for patients with a wide range of heart rhythm and related conditions, including:
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – All types: paroxysmal, persistent, and permanent
- Atrial Flutter – A similar arrhythmia with a more organized rhythm
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) – Rapid heartbeats originating above the ventricles
- Bradycardia – Abnormally slow heart rate
- Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs) – Early heartbeats originating in the atria
- Syncope (Fainting) – Often related to rhythm disturbances
- Cryptogenic Stroke – Stroke with no clear cause, potentially linked to AFib
- Left Atrial Appendage Thrombus – Clot formation in the heart’s left atrial appendage
- Post-Ablation Arrhythmia Management – Ongoing care after rhythm procedures
- Anticoagulation Management – For stroke prevention in AFib patients
TREATMENT & PROCEDURES
Treatment for AFib is personalized and may include:
- Lifestyle Modifications – Managing weight, sleep apnea, and alcohol intake.
- Medications – To control heart rate, rhythm, and reduce stroke risk (e.g., anticoagulants).
- Cardioversion – A procedure to restore normal rhythm using electrical or pharmacologic methods.
- Catheter Ablation – A minimally invasive procedure to isolate or destroy abnormal electrical pathways.
- Convergent/Hybrid Ablation – A minimally invasive procedure, surgeon performs ablation from outside and cardiologist from inside the heart.
- Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) and clips – For patients who cannot take blood thinners, this procedure helps reduce stroke risk.
We Offer the Latest: Pulse Field Ablation (PFA)
Our Center of Excellence is proud to offer Pulse Field Ablation (PFA) — the newest, most advanced technology for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. PFA uses non‑thermal electrical pulses to precisely target abnormal heart tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding structures.
Backed by the latest 2026 clinical evidence, PFA provides:
- Enhanced safety
- Shorter procedure times
- Fewer complications
- Long term outcomes comparable or superior to traditional ablation
By integrating this breakthrough technology, we ensure our patients receive the most modern, effective, and safest AF treatment available today.
Testing & Diagnostics
To ensure accurate diagnosis and guide treatment, we use advanced testing methods such as:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Measures heart rhythm and detects AFib episodes.
- Holter Monitor / Event Recorder – Wearable devices that track heart activity over time.
- Echocardiogram – Ultrasound imaging to assess heart structure and function.
- Cardiac MRI or CT scan – Provides detailed images of the heart and surrounding vessels.
- Blood Tests – To evaluate thyroid function, electrolyte levels, and clotting risk.
- Sleep Study – To identify sleep apnea, a common AFib trigger.
Procedure Volume & Expertise
High procedural volume is one of the strongest indicators of clinical expertise. In electrophysiology, experience directly translates to better patient outcomes. Our team performs a comprehensive range of advanced electrophysiology procedures across all NCH facilities, making us one of the region’s most experienced and trusted programs.
2025 Electrophysiology Procedure Volume (NCH Healthcare System)
- Ablations: > 1500
- Cardiac Rhythm Device Procedures (CRT): 993
- Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (Watchman & Amulet): 375
These numbers reflect far more than activity. They represent the depth of skill our team brings to managing complex arrhythmias, advanced device therapies, and stroke-prevention interventions. Combined with evidence-based protocols and a truly collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, our volume continues to drive exceptional patient outcomes and solidify NCH as a leading destination for atrial fibrillation care in Southwest Florida.
