October 27th, 2009
Sanchez to speak at free heart seminar

Dr. Javier Sanchez of the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute will give a free seminar Wednesday evening.

STAFF REPORT

On Wednesday, October 28, 2009, the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute (TCAI) at St. David’s Medical Center will host a seminar about the most effective ways to treat and correct Atrial Fibrillation (A Fib), a heart rhythm disorder.

The seminar will be held on Wednesday from 7- 8 p.m. at the San Marcos Embassy Suites Hotel, at 1001 E. McCarty Lane. The seminar will feature Dr. Javier Sanchez, a cardiac electrophysiologist at TCAI. The seminar is free and open to the public.

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 is a type of irregular heartbeat affecting about 2.2 million people in the United States. Symptoms of A Fib include shortness of breath and lightheadedness.

“A Fib is not life threatening if treated properly,” said Sanchez . “However, if left untreated, A Fib can lead to congestive heart failure or stroke.”

TCAI is one of the world’s most comprehensive centers with the latest treatment advances for correcting A Fib. It is led by Dr. Andrea Natale, 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. To register for the free seminar, call (512) 544-AFIB (2342). For more information, visit www.TCAInstitute.com.