Mikel Galdona, who suffered from atrial fibrillation, has successfully had his normal heart rhythm and daily life restored thanks to two groundbreaking procedures at Policlínica Gipuzkoa. Galdona described experiencing persistent rapid heartbeats that signaled an arrhythmia.
Following his diagnosis, Dr. Ramiro Trillo, head of Interventional Cardiology, explained the risks associated with this condition, including the formation of blood clots that could lead to strokes. He noted that while anticoagulant treatment is common, it carries a risk of bleeding.
The chosen solution for Galdona involved pulmonary vein ablation, performed by electrophysiologist cardiologist Dr. Jesús Martínez Alday, aimed at interrupting the abnormal electrical signals causing the arrhythmia. The goal is to restore the heart's normal sinus rhythm.
Even after ablation and the restoration of normal rhythm, some atrial contraction abnormalities may persist, maintaining a reduced risk of clot formation.
Additionally, a left atrial appendage closure was performed, a procedure led by Dr. Trillo. This small appendage is often called the "stroke factory" as it's where most clots form in patients with atrial fibrillation. Sealing this area with a device significantly lowers the risk of clot formation and can often eliminate the need for long-term anticoagulants.
Both interventions were conducted consecutively in the hybrid operating room at Policlínica Gipuzkoa. Galdona underwent the procedures on September 15th, was discharged the following day, and felt well enough to return to his work at a real estate agency.
Nearly a year later, Galdona reports no further arrhythmias and leads a completely normal life, including engaging in sports, with minimal heart medication.
These therapeutic advancements will be the central topic of the 'Health Forum' event this afternoon, titled 'When the Heart Loses Rhythm: Ablation and Ligation, New Non-Surgical Treatments,' featuring presentations by Dr. Trillo, Dr. Martínez Alday, and cardiovascular surgeon Lucía Pañeda.
