A new “hybrid” procedure that is only available at a small group of medical centers may prove to be a better alternative for patients suffering from atrial fibrillation (a-fib).

The procedure combines a minimally-invasive surgical method with the most recent advances in catheter ablation, which scars the inner surface of the heart as a means of blocking the signals that cause the heart to misfire. This hybrid approach allows doctors the right amount of access to both the inside and outside of the heart simultaneously. This helps the doctors block the wayward electrical signals that cause the atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation occurs when the atria (smaller upper chambers of the heart) receive irregular electrical signals that prevent the blood from pumping normally through the heart and the rest of the body. This causes the heart to beat abnormally in weak flutters as opposed to the regular heartbeat that provide regular blood flow to the ventricles. The condition alone is not necessarily fatal; however, current prescription drug treatments like Multaq have been proven to increase a patient’s chances of death.

While atrial fibrillation has been proven to lead to patients suffering from strokes and congestive heart failure, recent studies on Multaq, made by Sanofi-Aventis, have shown that the drug’s side effects include liver failure and irregular heartbeats. The FDA is currently reviewing Multaq’s link to irregular heartbeats. In fact, the recent PALLAS study of Multaq was stopped after early data showed that the patients that had permanent atrial fibrillation had a higher chance of suffering from a heart-related complication or stroke. This new hybrid procedure may be a welcome alternative to prescription drugs like Multaq for some patients.

If you or a family member have developed liver failure or heart complications after taking Multaq for atrial fibrillation, contact attorney Greg Jones for a free consultation. I am experienced at fighting Multaq lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your injuries.