Cardiac Arrhythmia Device Program

What is it?

While the sinoatrial node acts as a natural pacemaker by generating electrical impulses in regular intervals to cause the heart to contract, factors such as age and heart disease can cause a decline in this function. Some patients may experience heart block, which is caused by the inability of the impulses generated by the sinoatrial node to reach the pumping chambers of the heart.

These conditions lead to slow heart rhythms (bradycardia) and leave the heart unable to pump blood efficiently to the brain and body. A cardiac device may be implanted in the chest to help the heart maintain a normal rhythm:

• Pacemaker is a small device that connects the upper chambers of the heart (atria) to a computer that monitors the heart's underlying rhythm and delivers an electrical signal to the heart as needed to maintain normal rhythm.
• Implantable cardiac device (ICD) is similar to a pacemaker but is used for more dangerous arrhythmias for which low-energy electrical impulses may not be sufficient to restore heart function.
• Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device can be used for heart failure patients needing both lower chambers (ventricles) to be paced at the same time.

The Loyola difference

Loyola's team of expert electrophysiologists, heart failure specialists, advanced practice nurses, technical staff, imaging experts, and other professionals work together to determine the best treatment options for patients with cardiac rhythm disorders. We offer expertise in cardiac device management, including device implantation, lead extractions, and medical management. Our state-of-the-art equipment allow physicians to use leading-edge technologies to perform procedures.

Loyola is a nationally recognized leader in cardiac care. U.S. News & World Report ranked us 18th in the nation for cardiology and heart surgery in 2012, making this our 10th year in the top 50.

Learn more about our performance outcomes.