


Atrial fibrillation Treatment in SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital
About the clinic
Atrial fibrillation treatment at SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital is led by the specialist who discovered Brugada syndrome. This pediatric cardiology center in Barcelona, Spain, performs 300+ surgeries every year. It serves as a national reference center and belongs to the European Reference Networks for rare cardiac diseases.
Expert cardiac care
The pediatric Arrhythmia Unit is led by Dr. Josep Brugada. He is a cardiologist known for his discovery of Brugada syndrome and his work in sudden death prevention. Dr. Brugada has published 400+ peer-reviewed papers on heart rhythm disorders. Forbes has listed Dr. Brugada among the top 50 doctors in Spain. The unit handles complex cases using 3D mapping systems to locate the exact source of irregular heartbeats.
Diagnostic options for arrhythmias
To identify the specific type of atrial fibrillation or underlying heart rhythm disorder, the clinic provides several tests:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG). This records the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities.
- Holter monitoring. This portable device tracks heart rhythm over 24 to 48 hours during normal activities.
- Electrophysiological study. This invasive test helps map the heart's electrical system in detail.
- Genetic testing for arrhythmia syndromes. This identifies inherited risks for family members.
Advanced treatment methods
The hospital specializes in minimally invasive techniques that shorten hospital stays to just one or two days. These procedures target the electrical pathways causing the heart to beat irregularly.
- Catheter ablation for arrhythmias. Doctors use radiofrequency heat or cryoablation cold to destroy the tissue causing the misfire. 3D mapping helps the surgeon target only the necessary cells.
- Pacemaker implantation. The clinic offers traditional transvenous leads or leadless Micra pacemakers. The leadless option goes directly into the heart to preserve the veins.
- Cardioneuroablación. SJD was the first hospital in Spain to use this method for children. It treats parasympathetic ganglia to help avoid the need for a pacemaker in specific cases.
If your child needs specialized heart rhythm care, you can request a consultation or leave a request on Bookimed to learn more about the available options.
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Treatments prices in the clinic
| treatment | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Radiofrequency ablation | Price on request |
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SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital: more details about the clinic
SJD Barcelona Children's Hospital (Spain) has been providing medical care since 1867. It is a leading Mother and Child Center, treating patients from infancy to 18 years old. The hospital is part of the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) and is accredited by Spain’s National Board of Health.
Key Facts (2023):
- 16,000+ surgeries performed
- 3,000+ deliveries
- 322,000+ outpatient visits
- 334 inpatient beds
- 3,082 staff members
Specialized Medical Divisions
The hospital has two main units:
- Child’s Unit – Covers all pediatric specialties, including oncology and hematology.
- Women’s Unit – Focuses on maternity care, high-risk pregnancies, fetal medicine, and gynecology.
Innovations in Treatment
SJD Barcelona Children's Hospital develops advanced and safe treatment methods in its research laboratories. Specialists focus on:
- Genetic and molecular biology research
- Neurometabolic and hereditary disorders
- Fetal disease studies
- Cancer research
Ongoing projects include:
- Telemonitoring for pregnant patients
- Smart sensors for neonatal care
- Therapy through play for pediatric patients
SJD Pediatric Cancer Center
One of Europe's top pediatric oncology and hematology centers, the Cancer Center features:
- HEPA-filtered rooms for post-bone marrow transplant care
- Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma, preserving the eye while targeting tumors
- Anti-GD2 immunotherapy for neuroblastoma, improving survival rates by 20%
- Nanofiber-based tissue for localized cancer treatment
- Ongoing vaccine development for brain and spinal cord tumors
Survival Rates:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia – 94%
- Bone marrow transplant:
- From a related donor – 90-100%
- From an unrelated donor – 70-80%
Cardiology Center
With over 300 surgeries annually, the hospital’s cardiology team treats congenital heart conditions and complex cardiovascular disorders. It has one of Europe's highest success rates and lowest mortality rates for pediatric cardiac surgery.
Surgery Department
Minimally invasive techniques reduce complications and recovery time. These include:
- Laparoscopy
- Thoracoscopy
- Tendoscopic surgery
- Robotic-assisted procedures
- Laser and ultrasonic surgical systems
Orthopedics and Traumatology
The orthopedic team treats scoliosis, pediatric arthrogryposis, hip joint disorders, tumors, bone inflammation, clubfoot, and congenital defects. Innovative techniques are used for posture correction and spinal alignment.
Neurology Department
Recognized by Spain’s Ministry of Health, the neurology unit specializes in treating:
- Refractory epilepsy
- Neurometabolic disorders
- Hereditary spastic paraplegia
- Ataxia
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
A multidisciplinary team develops personalized rehabilitation programs for conditions such as:
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Stroke
- Neurological and rheumatic diseases
- Amputations
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Bladder and bowel dysfunctions
Patient Services
The hospital offers single, double, and triple rooms. Staff assists with hotel bookings, visas, and documentation. Additional services, including transfers and interpreters, are available for an extra fee. English and Spanish are spoken.
For treatment costs, patients can submit a request through Bookimed.
Additional services
Requirements for admission
Patient reviews
View 44 reviewsДенис • Brain tumor Kazakhstan
All consultations were organised in a highly professional manner with the necessary preparation
Natalia Rayskiy • Liver cancer
Мы очень довольны клиникой Sant Joan de Deu, в которой наблюдается наш ребёнок
Usrat tayeba Tayeba Tori • Surgery for syringomyelia Canada
he was really good and informative
Любовь • Spina bifida (cleft spine) Ukraine
"You are best !!!"
Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu, 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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