Radiofrequency ablation (RF ablation) is the most widely used catheter ablation technique for treating heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). It works by delivering controlled heat energy through a catheter to a very small area of heart tissue that is responsible for abnormal electrical signals. Treating this area prevents the arrhythmia from starting or continuing.
RF ablation does not involve surgery. It is performed using thin catheters guided to the heart through blood vessels, usually from the groin.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
In radiofrequency ablation, electrical energy is converted into heat at the tip of the catheter. This heat creates a precise and localized treatment area that blocks abnormal electrical pathways while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
The goal is not to damage large areas of the heart, but to target specific points that trigger or maintain the abnormal rhythm.
Which Arrhythmias Are Treated With RF Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is used to treat a wide range of arrhythmias, including:
Atrial flutter, with very high long-term success rates
- AVNRT and AVRT (including WPW syndrome)
- Atrial tachycardia
- Atrial fibrillation, often as part of pulmonary vein isolation
- Frequent premature beats (PVCs)
- Ventricular tachycardia, especially when related to scar tissue
Because of its flexibility and precision, RF ablation can be applied in many different heart locations.
How RF Ablation Is Performed
RF ablation is performed in a specialized electrophysiology laboratory. Catheters are inserted through blood vessels and guided to the heart under imaging and electrical mapping.
Once the abnormal rhythm source is identified, radiofrequency energy is delivered for short periods, usually lasting seconds at a time. The physician monitors the effect in real time to confirm that the arrhythmia has been successfully interrupted.
The total procedure time depends on the type and complexity of the arrhythmia.
What Will I Feel During RF Ablation?
Most patients receive sedation and are relaxed and sleepy during the procedure. Pain is uncommon. Some patients may feel brief warmth or mild chest discomfort during energy delivery, but this is usually well tolerated.
After the procedure, temporary fatigue or mild chest soreness may occur and typically resolves within days.
Recovery After RF Ablation
Recovery after radiofrequency ablation is similar to other catheter ablation techniques. Most patients go home the same day or the following day.
Normal daily activities are usually resumed within a few days, while heavy exertion is restricted for a short period based on medical advice.
Advantages of Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation allows high precision and flexibility, making it suitable for many arrhythmias and heart anatomies. The physician can tailor lesion size and location based on real-time feedback.
Because of its long track record, RF ablation is considered a well-established and reliable treatment option with extensive clinical experience.
Limitations and Considerations
RF ablation relies on heat, so careful technique is essential when treating areas close to sensitive structures. For this reason, alternative energy sources—such as cryoablation or pulsed field ablation—may be preferred in selected situations.
The choice of energy source is individualized and based on the arrhythmia type, anatomy, and overall treatment goals.
In Summary
Radiofrequency ablation is a heat-based catheter ablation technique used to treat many types of heart rhythm disorders. By precisely targeting abnormal electrical tissue, RF ablation can eliminate arrhythmia sources, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life. It remains a cornerstone of modern cardiac ablation and is often the first-line energy choice in experienced centers.
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Reference: Radiofrequency Ablation
