Dear Heart Rhythm Professional,

On behalf of the Heart Rhythm Society’s Scientific Sessions Program Committee and its leadership, I would like to extend to you an invitation to attend Heart Rhythm 2011, which will be held May 4 – 7 in San Francisco, CA. This year’s Annual Scientific Sessions will explore science, discovery and innovation, which collectively embody the accomplishments and aspirations of our field. The focus of Heart Rhythm 2011, Technology, will celebrate the successful collaboration between physicians, scientists, allied professionals and industry to develop new therapies and to improve patient outcomes.

Chair of Scientific Sessions Program Committee, Anne M. Gillis, MD, FHRS, is interviewed on the importance of technology — the focus of the Society's 32nd Annual Scientific Sessions. Gillis outlines recent technological advancements that have revolutionized our field and will drive both popular and new sessions at Heart Rhythm 2011. Watch interview now (2:30) »        Dr. Gillis also discusses the increased involvement of the international cardiac arrhythmia community. Gillis highlights international attendance and the Joint Sessions that will be showcased at Heart Rhythm 2011 — Watch interview now (2:04) »

Heart Rhythm 2011 will bring together leading experts from around the globe to highlight the latest research, technologies, therapies and approaches to patient care in our field. With more than 250 sessions, 900 faculty and 130 exhibitors, you will be able to gain first-hand knowledge and perspectives that can be put immediately into practice.

Advancements in the area of technology are essential to the overall evolution of investigation and treatment for patients. In collaboration with all stakeholders, we will highlight the technical developments, enhanced processes and innovative thinking that continue to drive the field of treating cardiac arrhythmias and lead to improvements in procedural and therapeutic outcomes.

The focus of Technology begins with the Opening Plenary session and keynote speaker Clayton M. Christensen, author of The Innovator’s Dilemma (1997) and The Innovator’s Prescription (2009). Christensen is the world’s foremost authority on disruptive innovation, and in his recent book he outlines the need for disruptive technology and innovation in health care.

Popular sessions and elements returning for Heart Rhythm 2011 include: the AF Summit, Basic/Translational Science Forum, Allied Professionals Forums I and II, session Commentators, Poster Town and Rhythm Theatre. In addition, there will be several new highlights, including Late-Breaking Basic Science, The Networked EP Lab, Interventional Device Implantation Sessions, a new Innovators Abstract category and a virtual meeting for the AF Summit.

Each year, the Program Committee works to develop an outstanding program, and this year is no exception! The Heart Rhythm Society’s Annual Scientific Sessions continue to provide the latest and most relevant information on the subjects that matter most to heart rhythm professionals.

I look forward to seeing you in San Francisco!

Anne M. Gillis, MD, FHRS
Chair, Scientific Sessions Program Committee