Atrial Fibrillation

Expert Atrial Fibrillation care, right here in Nebraska

Nebraska Medicine is proud to be the only program in the state with a dedicated team of heart doctors -- both electrophysiologists and cardiac surgeons -- working together to care for patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). 

We offer the most advanced treatments in Nebraska, with a focus on safety, long-term health and personalized care that fits your needs.  

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

AFib is the most common type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It happens when the upper chambers of your heart (the atria) quiver or beat out of sync due to a problem with the heart’s electrical signals. AFib can start with brief episodes that come and go, but may become more persistent as time goes on.

Some people feel symptoms like: 

• A racing or fluttering heartbeat.
• Skipped beats or palpitations.
• Heart pounding.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Passing out.

Why is AFib a concern?

AFib isn’t just uncomfortable, it can lead to serious health risks. It increases the chance of stroke (often caused by blood clots from a small pouch in the heart called the left atrial appendage), heart failure and can reduce heart function by as much as 15%. 

Over 5 million people in the U.S. are affected by AFib. While it’s not always life-threatening, untreated AFib greatly increases the risk of stroke, the most common cause of permanent disability and the third most common cause of death in the U.S. That’s why it’s important to work with a team of dedicated specialists. 

Why choose Nebraska Medicine for AFib treatment? 
We get results.

Our patients experience fewer AFib-related strokes, fewer heart failure symptoms and better long-term outcomes. 

We personalize your treatment

We’ll walk you through all your options, including medication and recommend what’s truly best for your health and lifestyle. Not everyone is a candidate for surgery or ablation.

We offer a variety of options 

Nebraska Medicine offers access to a full range of treatment options for atrial fibrillation, all in one place. From medication to advanced procedures, we’re here to help you find the right care.

Your treatment options may include:

• Catheter ablation 
  A minimally invasive procedure done through a small tube in the leg. Most people recover quickly and go home the same day or the next.
• Pulsed field ablation (PFA) 
  A newer option that uses electrical fields instead of heat or cold. It is especially helpful for people with persistent AFib.
• Maze and Mini-Maze procedures 
  The Maze is an open-heart surgery used for more complex cases. It is a good option for people who are not candidates for traditional surgery.
• Convergent procedure 
  A team approach that combines surgery and catheter ablation. One specialist treats the outside of the heart while another treats the inside. It can offer strong results with a shorter recovery time.
• WATCHMAN™ device 
  For patients who cannot take blood thinners and whose AFib is not related to a heart valve problem.  This small implant helps prevent strokes by closing off the part of the heart where clots often form.

Technology that supports safer care

We use the latest tools to improve accuracy, safety and outcomes. Our Electrophysiology Suites include:

• 3D mapping software to guide treatment with high precision.
• Intracardiac ultrasound to reduce radiation and avoid extra imaging like CT or MRI.

We’re with you for the long haul

Our Heart Rhythm team offers long-term care to help you stay healthy and manage AFib over time.

Ready to take control of your AFib?

Whether you're just diagnosed or exploring advanced treatment options, our team is here to help. Contact Nebraska Medicine’s Heart Rhythm team today to schedule a consultation.