Genetic Arrhythmia Center

Genetic Arrhythmia Center

phone

Telephone
 612-863-3900 or 1-800-582-5175

The Genetic Arrhythmia Center serves patients and families affected by rare genetic heart conditions. It aims to bring hope and answers 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.

Examples of conditions studied

  • Long QT syndrome
  • Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia
  • Brugada's syndrome
  • Left ventricular noncompaction
  • 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, 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.

Allina Health 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.