Tristram Bahnson, MD, and his colleagues provide treatment for patients with abnormal heart rhythms.

What is arrhythmia and what are the symptoms?

An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm that occurs when the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to beat irregularly or too fast. The symptoms usually include fatigue, inability to exercise, weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, fainting, and the sensation of irregular heart beat described as "palpitations." The most common arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation (AF).  Until recently treatment options were limited, leaving many patients resigned to living without their previous vigor and unable to engage in physical activities they previously enjoyed.

Tristram Bahnson, MD

What can be done today?

With recent advances in treatment, we can now control symptoms of AF in more than 90 percent of patients using medications or with new catheter-based or surgical procedures. A relatively new procedure called catheter ablation can now control AF in patients who previously had no hope of returning to their former vigor and quality of life. Having the opportunity to help patients in such a significant way is deeply gratifying.

How did Duke become a leader in this field?

Duke draws from a long history of pioneering work and expertise in clinical cardiac electrophysiology. The faculty have extensive experience both performing and teaching the most complex catheter ablation procedures and implanting advanced rhythm control devices. Duke is uniquely suited to offer these services due not only to the expertise of its faculty, but also to the commitment of Duke Medicine to keep the electrophysiology labs up to date with state-of-the-art equipment and the most highly trained staff. 

As director of the new Duke Center for Atrial Fibrillation, I am enthusiastic about providing a multidisciplinary approach to care that includes heart rhythm specialists, general cardiologists, and cardiac surgeons. We are all committed to providing our patients with the very best care in the years to come.