WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) -- Via Christi says it is the first hospital in the region to perform a new procedure for atrial fibrillation for patients who can't tolerate blood thinners. A-Fib, as it is often referred to, is one of the most common forms of irregular heartbeat. It occurs in the atria and the upper chambers of the heart, and those diagnosed with it experience rapid, irregular heartbeats. A-Fib can prevent blood from flowing properly to the lower chambers of the heart. This can lead to blood pooling in the heart, which can lead to blood clots and stroke. Most people diagnosed with A-Fib are prescribed blood thinners. However, for some patients, the complications or side effects are too severe. Dr. Chehab (center) and surgery team pose for this photo after successfully completing the First Laminar LAAX Procedure at Via Christi St. Francis (Courtesy Ascension Via Christi) The new procedure performed by Interventional cardiologist Bassem Chehab, MD, and the Structural Heart team at Via Christi St. Francis involved the new Laminar left atrial appendage elimination (LAAX) system. Via Christi is the only hospital in the region, including Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma, participating in the study. The device is inserted into the left atrium and uses a rotating ball to close off the left atrial appendage, eliminating the LAA pouch. In a healthy heart, the left atrial appendage helps regulate blood volume by releasing certain chemicals in response to blood pressure. In A-Fib, the pouch releases chemicals that cause the heart to beat irregularly and often too fast, allowing blood clots to form. This can lead to strokes or a heart attack, which is why patients with A-fib are prescribed blood thinners. Via Christi says the LAAX device offers a minimally invasive alternative for people who cannot take blood thinners. The device is installed in the heart through a catheter and has an advantage over other devices due to its smaller size. This means less foreign material inside the heart that could lead to complications. Wichita-area Libraries have blood pressure kits for checkout "We are excited to be one of the first hospitals in the United States to offer this new technology to our patients," Chehab said. "The LAAX device represents a significant step forward in the treatment of A-Fib, providing a safe and effective option for patients who are unable to tolerate blood thinners." Via Christi is just one of 15 sites in the U.S. and Canada participating in the trial to compare the safety and effectiveness of the system to other commercial devices in 1,500 patients. "Via Christi is proud to be at the forefront of cardiovascular care," Chehab stated. "By participating in this landmark study, we are not only providing our patients with early access to groundbreaking technology but also contributing to the development of future therapies that will benefit countless Individuals worldwide." Chehab and his team performed the procedure in less than an hour on Monday, Nov. 5. Twenty-four hours later, the patient was released and no longer required blood thinners. Atrial Fibrillation affects around 12 million Americans. Symptoms of A-fib can come and go, but here are the most common symptoms: Feelings of a fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat, called palpitations. Chest pain. Dizziness. Fatigue. Lightheadedness. Reduced ability to exercise. Shortness of breath. Weakness. If you are experiencing any of those symptoms, contact your doctor to make an appointment. Some people with A-fib may not even notice they have it. If left untreated, A-fib leads to a much higher risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Click here to learn more about Ascension Via Christi’s Cardiology services.