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Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that occurs when the heart abruptly stops beating because of irregular, abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), most commonly due to an abnormal rhythm called ventricular fibrillation. The abnormal rhythm is caused by problems with the heart's electrical system. That system is responsible for creating electrical signals that cause the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Without immediate medical attention following an episode, sudden cardiac arrest can be deadly within minutes.
Read more about sudden cardiac arrest and ventricular fibrillation.
Mayo Clinic diagnoses and treats thousands of children and adults each year who have experienced or are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Mayo physicians have made significant contributions to advancing surgical and genetic testing methods to diagnose and treat children and adults who have hereditary heart rhythm conditions that lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
Mayo Clinic's large team of highly experienced heart rhythm doctors uses the most advanced diagnostic tests and technology to identify those at risk for sudden cardiac arrest. They also offer patients extensive experience in preventive care for sudden cardiac arrest. Mayo Clinic locations in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota have clinics dedicated specifically to treating heart rhythm abnormalities. Mayo's Heart Rhythm Clinic in Minnesota is one of the largest arrhythmia clinics in the nation and comprises three subspecialty clinics that address the causes and treatment of arrhythmias.
Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for heart and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report.
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