The Lariat Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation: Who Needs it and Why?

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is among the most commonly occurring forms of arrhythmia affecting an estimated 3 million patients.  In the condition, the upper chambers of the heart quiver due to chaotic electrical signals and beat out of rhythm with the lower chambers.  In turn, the heart rate is significantly higher than normal.  Eventually, AFib can lead to some very serious and even life-threatening complications such as weakening of the heart and the development of blood clots that could contribute to a stroke.  In fact, patients with AFib are up to five times more likely to suffer a stroke than others.