LEWISTON — “Does Your Heart Go Pit-a-Pat?” will be the topic of two Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentations set for February.

Brooke S. Ritvo, MD, a cardiologist, will explain atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. AF is a condition in which electrical activity in the heart causes its rate or rhythm to be abnormal. AF may lead to complications and serious heart conditions and can increase a person’s risk of stroke. She will discuss how AF is detected, evaluated, treated and managed.

Ritvo is an electrophysiologist, an expert in the study of the electrical system of the heart that generates the heartbeat. Electrophysiologic studies are used to diagnose heart rhythm problems and to determine if a patient needs a pacemaker.

Prior to beginning her work in the Lewiston-Auburn area, Ritvo practiced for six years as an electrophysiologist with Arrhythmia and Pacemaker Consultants in West Orange, N.J.

Ritvo is certified in cardiovascular disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

The free hour-long program will be presented at 1:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, and at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17. Both presentations will be delivered in the Chairmen’s Rooms, lower level, 12 High St. Medical Office Building.

Those interested in attending either programshould register in advance by calling 795-8448, e-mailing [email protected] or registering online at www.cmmc.org. Interpreter services are available upon advance request.