Conditions Treated
Catheter ablation is used to treat many types of cardiac arrhythmias, including:
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
- Atrial flutter
- Ventricular tachycardia (VT)
- Superventricular tachycardia (SVT)
Treatment Details
This procedure takes place in an electrophysiology lab at TGH where our specialists can closely monitor our patients during the procedure. During a catheter ablation, the physician will:
- Insert a catheter (a long, thin tube) into a blood vessel near the groin and guide it to the heart
- Use electrodes located at the end of the catheter to stimulate the heart and find the area of the heart muscle that is causing the abnormal rhythm
- Use radiofrequency heat energy, delivered through the catheter, to destroy the problem area
When the radiofrequency energy destroys the area of the heart muscle causing the electrical disruption, it disconnects the abnormal electrical signals so that they can no longer be sent to the heart.
What to Expect
After the procedure, you may need to lie in bed for up to six hours to prevent any bleeding. During this time, you will be placed on a telemetry monitor so that your heart can be closely observed by our cardiac care nurses. It’s normal to experience skipped or irregular heartbeats after the procedure, which should resolve once you have recovered.
You will likely experience chest discomfort and bruising after the catheter ablation. The incision site will be bandaged—not stitched—and if you notice any redness, swelling or drainage in this area, let a nurse know right away.
While some patients can go home the same day as the procedure, others may need to stay in the hospital for a night or two. You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist after the catheter ablation, and he or she will clear you for regular activities once you have fully recovered.
Effectiveness
Catheter ablations are typically very effective for heart arrhythmias—with a success rate over 90%. However, it’s not unusual to need another catheter ablation or be on medication to help control your heartbeat long-term.