What is Catheter Ablation?
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat arrhythmias. It targets tissue areas in the heart that produce abnormal electrical signals. These areas are neutralized through controlled energy application. Two options are generally used as energy sources: radiofrequency waves or cryotherapy. Radiofrequency waves apply heat energy, while cryotherapy uses cold energy. These energy forms carefully modify or destroy the target tissue. As a result, the production and propagation of abnormal electrical signals are prevented.
In this video I have tried to give basic information about ablation.
Why is Catheter ablation Performed?
Catheter ablation is an important method in treating arrhythmias. This procedure is performed for arrhythmias that cause serious symptoms and carry risks of stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. It’s particularly preferred in cases where drug therapy is insufficient or side effects cannot be tolerated. The catheter ablation approach provides an effective and long-term solution, allowing patients to return to their normal lives, thus significantly improving their quality of life.
What are the Benefits of Catheter ablation?
One of the most important advantages of catheter ablation is the potential for long-term relief from arrhythmia symptoms. It can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and allow them to participate in regular activities without the burden of recurring episodes. By addressing the underlying cause of the arrhythmia, catheter ablation provides a more definitive solution than medication therapy alone.
Another benefit of catheter ablation is the potential reduction in antiarrhythmic medication use. While medications can effectively control some arrhythmias, they may cause side effects or interact with other medications. With successful treatment through catheter ablation, patients can reduce or even eliminate their long-term medication needs.
What are the Risks of Catheter ablation?
The most common risk is minor complications such as bleeding or infection at the catheter insertion site. In rare cases, more serious complications may occur, such as damage to blood vessels or normal components of the conduction system. However, these risks are minimized through the electrophysiologist’s expertise and the use of advanced imaging technologies during the procedure.
Types of Catheter ablation
There are 2 different catheter ablation methods, each specifically designed to address certain types of arrhythmias:
Radiofrequency Ablation: This involves burning targeted tissues by delivering heat energy between 50°C and 70°C to destroy abnormal electrical pathways in the heart. It’s the most commonly used type of catheter ablation.
CryoAblation: This procedure involves freezing target tissues at temperatures between -40°C and -60°C to neutralize heart tissue producing abnormal electrical signals.
How is Catheter Ablation Performed?
The catheter ablation procedure typically begins with administering local anesthesia to numb the area (usually groin or neck) where the catheter will be inserted. After the area is numbed, a small incision is made, and one or more catheters are inserted into the blood vessel. Then, using advanced imaging techniques, the catheters are guided through the blood vessel into the heart, and tissues causing the arrhythmia are identified through electrophysiological study (EPS). Appropriate energy (hot or cold) is delivered to the targeted area, effectively eliminating abnormal electrical pathways and restoring the heart’s normal rhythm. The duration of the procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the arrhythmia but typically takes 2 to 4 hours.
After the procedure, the patient is closely monitored to ensure the heart rhythm has been successfully restored and there are no immediate complications. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a short period, typically ranging from a few hours to overnight, depending on the case and physician’s recommendation.
Types of Arrhythmias Treated with catheter ablation:
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
- Atrial Flutter
- Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
- Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)
- Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome
- Atrial Tachycardia (AT)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there pain during catheter ablation? Patients don’t feel pain during the procedure as they’re under sedation. Mild discomfort may be felt afterward, but this is usually short-lived.
Is the patient put to sleep during catheter ablation? For SVT, WPW, or AT (atrial tachycardia) ablation, the patient isn’t put to sleep. For atrial fibrillation or VT ablation, the patient is usually under general anesthesia or deep sedation.
What is the success rate of catheter ablation? Success rates vary by arrhythmia type and patient condition:
- SVT: 99% success rate
- Atrial Fibrillation: 85-90% first-year success rate
- Ventricular Arrhythmias: 80-95% depending on location
How long is the recovery period? Most patients can be discharged the day after the procedure. Complete recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks.
What lifestyle changes are needed after ablation?
- Quit alcohol if you drink
- Quit smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Address weight issues if present
- Control accompanying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes
Is medication needed after ablation? This depends on the type of arrhythmia and individual patient factors. Some patients can discontinue medications, while others may need to continue certain medications at reduced doses.
When can I return to work? Most patients return to work within a few days to a week, depending on their job type.
Important Post-Procedure Care:
- Monitor insertion site for signs of infection
- Follow medication instructions carefully
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Report any unusual symptoms
- Follow recommended activity restrictions
- Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle
Reference: Ablation
Update: Oct 25, 2024