What is Cardioneuroablation?
If vasovagal syncope is caused by a temporary pulse drop or cardiac arrest, it can be treated with ablation. This is called cardioneuroablation or CNA. It is a very effective treatment to prevent passing out attacks.
How is cardioneuroablation performed?
Outside the right and left atria, there are places where nerve networks gather. These are called ganglionated plexi or GPs. The dominant nerves in these nerve networks are the parasympathetic nerves, the nerves that slow down our heart. When we burn them, the mechanism in vasovagal syncope is disrupted and cardiac pauses and slowdowns are reduced. This is why ablation treatments are effective in these patients.
Not all vasovagal syncope is suitable for this ablation. Low pulse rate during syncope should be in the foreground. If syncope is caused only by low blood pressure, the patient is unlikely to benefit from ablation.
