A master class was held by Oleg Sapelnikov, Head of Surgical Treatment of Cardiac Rhythm Disorders Lab of the Federal Research Medical Center of the Ministry of Health.

In total, six patients aged 54 – 77 were treated.

“We have already introduced radio frequency ablation to treat patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation,” said Head of Cardiology Ward of the University Clinic Daniyar Khaziakhmetov. “Cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation is one of the most effective types of surgical treatment; it’s characterized by shorter intervention time, lessened burden on the organism, and shortened recovery.”

Dr. Sapelnikov said, “Since 2010, when this method was introduced, the number of surgeries has risen like an avalanche, which is pretty telling. 1,500 interventions were made last year, and the total number of heart rhythm-related surgeries rose to 7,000. This method gains traction and replaces other methods due to its simplicity and effectiveness.”

Atrial fibrillation is among the most widespread arrhythmias. 1-2% of all people on the planet are affected, and the quantity is growing. The risk is 26 and 23 percent respectively for males and females over 40 years of age. Moreover, patients with fibrillation are five times more likely to suffer a stroke.

Source text: Olga Pelepets

Translation: Yury Nurmeev