Centers of Distinction
Genetic Arrhythmia Center

A person’s heart rate plays a key role in determining the amount of oxygenated blood that flows to the body’s vital organs. The heart has its own electrical conduction system that facilitates all cardiac motion. Any disturbance to this conduction system can lead to altered heart rhythms and rates and subsequent serious health risks.

Electrophysiology is the study of the heart’s conduction system. Through electrophysiology studies (EP studies) specialized physicians can identify the cause of rhythm disturbances and provide an array of treatment interventions to correct the conduction issue.

There is a growing amount of knowledge being obtained as we further investigate the complexity of the heart’s conduction system. Through research new and improved ways to treat these significant rhythm disturbances is occurring. Some current areas of research include studies involving heart failure, new pacing techniques and new drugs for the management of patients with atrial fibrillation.

The Genetic Arrhythmia Center was established in 2008 to serve patients and families affected by rare genetic cardiac arrhythmias. It aims to bring hope and answer and to prevent a life-threatening event from occurring in other family members.

It also gives researchers a unique opportunity to study several genetic disorders that are not well understood and for which treatment remains uncertain. Disorders studied are Long QT syndrome, arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, Brugada's syndrome, left ventricular non-compaction and catecholamine polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. These disorders can lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death, but they are often undetected until a life-threatening event occurs. Because they are rare, little is known about them, and cardiologists may only see several throughout his or her career. Furthermore, most cardiologists do not have the resources required to coordinate extensive testing and follow-up with family members.

Experts from several areas - including electrophysiologists, cardiologists, imaging specialists, a genetic counselor and clinical nurse specialists — are all dedicated to improving treatment for these patients and families. This work includes follow up with several family members — siblings, children, aunts, uncles and cousins to obtain the necessary breadth and depth of information about the patient’s condition.

The Minneapolis Heart Institute has developed a systematic approach for screening, diagnosis and treatment which includes gathering information about patients and family members. Over time, staff at the Center will learn how best to treat them.

When to consider a referral to the Genetic Arrhythmia Center:

• Family medical history includes an unexpected, sudden death before age 40 (including unexplained car accidents and drownings.)
• Fainting episodes (syncope) during or immediately after physical activity, or as a result of emotional excitement or distress.

For more information, contact the Genetic Arrhythmia Center at 612-775-3905.