Atrial fibrillation (AFib) affects more than 10 million U.S. adults and can lead to serious complications such as blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. For Todd Repass Jr., a then-52-year-old father, the journey began in 2018 when he stood up after a meal and felt weak, short of breath, and dizzy. The eventual diagnosis of AFib brought years of uncertainty as he tried medications, cardioversion, and lifestyle changes, but his episodes remained unpredictable and disruptive, sometimes lasting for weeks or months.
Traditional monitoring methods, including in-office electrocardiograms (EKGs) and externally worn Holter monitors, often failed to capture his episodes because they were prescribed for short durations, typically less than 30 days. "The AFib diagnosis is not necessarily the hardest part," Todd said. "It's the day-to-day uncertainty that comes with not knowing how to track what's happening."
Seeking better answers, Todd turned to his son, an employee of medical device manufacturer Medtronic, for guidance. After discussing options with his care team, his cardiologist recommended the Medtronic LINQ II™ insertable cardiac monitor (ICM). About one-third the size of an AAA battery, the device is placed just under the skin and continuously monitors the heart, transmitting abnormal rhythm information to his care team. The outpatient procedure took only a few minutes, and Todd then downloaded the MyCareLink Heart™ mobile app, which allowed him to record symptoms on his cell phone when he felt dizzy, weak, or out of rhythm.
For the first time, Todd could capture episodes as they happened, and his care team could compare his symptoms with the heart rhythm data. After several months, the ICM provided enough diagnostic information to inform a more targeted treatment strategy. Doctors recommended pulsed field ablation (PFA) using the Medtronic Affera™ mapping and ablation system and the Sphere-9™ catheter. This all-in-one dual-energy catheter uses both short electrical pulses and radiofrequency energy to target heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals.
More than a year after the ablation, Todd is AFib-free, and his LINQ II ICM continues to monitor his heart rhythm, providing reassurance that his condition is under control. He now exercises, participates in family activities, and walks his four golden retrievers without organizing his day around avoiding potential triggers. "Getting the LINQ II ICM and the ablation with the Affera system were the best health decisions I've ever made in my life," Todd said.
This story underscores the importance of advanced monitoring and treatment options for AFib, a condition that impacts millions. The LINQ II ICM and Affera system offer new hope for patients struggling with unpredictable episodes. However, these treatments carry risks. Possible risks associated with the implant of the LINQ™ Family ICMs include infection, device migration, erosion, and sensitivity to device materials. Risks with Sphere-9 may include stroke, pericardial tamponade, narrowing of pulmonary veins, damage to blood vessels, and a rare risk of atrio-esophageal fistula, among others. Patients should consult their doctors to determine if these treatments are appropriate.
For those with AFib or symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest fluttering, talking to a doctor about diagnosis and treatment options is crucial. As Todd's experience shows, a strong support system and access to innovative technologies can make a significant difference in managing this challenging condition. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, AFib is estimated to affect about 1 in 22 Americans, highlighting the need for continued awareness and advanced care.
