An overview of Cardiac Ablation
Cardiac ablation is a medical procedure used to correct heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) by creating tiny scars in the heart using heat or cold energy. The procedure involves inserting thin, flexible tubes called catheters through the veins or arteries, and may be done using sedation or general anesthesia. During the procedure, an electrophysiology (EP) study is performed to identify the area causing the arrhythmia and apply the appropriate ablation technique, such as heat or extreme cold, to create scars and block irregular electrical signals. The procedure can take anywhere from three to six hours and may carry risks such as stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage. It's important to discuss the benefits and risks of cardiac ablation with your healthcare provider to determine if it's the right treatment for you.
What is Cardiac Ablation used for?
Cardiac ablation is a medical procedure used to correct heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) by creating small scars in the heart to block irregular electrical signals. It is typically performed using thin, flexible tubes called catheters inserted through the veins or arteries. The procedure is done in the hospital, and the patient may receive sedatives or anesthesia to help them relax. The healthcare provider inserts the catheter through a blood vessel into the heart, and contrast dye may be used to help blood vessels show up more clearly on X-ray images. Cardiac ablation may be recommended for individuals who have tried medications to treat an arrhythmia without success, have had serious side effects from medications, have specific types of arrhythmias that respond well to ablation, or are at high risk of complications from arrhythmias. Possible risks of the procedure include bleeding or infection, blood vessel damage, heart valve damage, new or worsening arrhythmia, slow heart rate, blood clots, stroke or heart attack, and damage to the kidneys from contrast used during the procedure.
How to prepare for Cardiac Ablation?
Before a cardiac ablation, your healthcare provider will order several tests to gather more information about your heart condition. You may need to stop eating and drinking the night before the procedure. Additionally, you'll need to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding medications you should continue or stop taking before the cardiac ablation. It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your healthcare provider to understand if it's right for you.
How is Cardiac Ablation conducted?
During a cardiac ablation, a healthcare provider inserts catheters through blood vessels into the heart. These catheters have sensors on the tip that send electrical impulses and record the heart's electricity. The provider uses this information to identify the area causing the arrhythmia and decide where to apply the ablation. This part of the procedure is called an electrophysiology (EP) study. The catheters may also inject dye (contrast) to help blood vessels show up more clearly on X-ray images. There are two main ablation techniques: heat (radiofrequency energy) and extreme cold (cryoablation). The healthcare provider may use one or both of these techniques to create small scars in the heart and block the irregular heart rhythms.
How are Cardiac Ablation results reported?
The results of cardiac ablation are reported based on the success in restoring a typical heartbeat and reducing or eliminating the symptoms of arrhythmia. In most cases, the procedure takes three to six hours to complete, but the duration may vary depending on the type of arrhythmia being treated. While some people experience improvements in their quality of life after the procedure, there is a chance that the irregular heartbeat may return. If this occurs, the procedure may be repeated, or alternative treatments may be considered. The need for continued medication also depends on the type of arrhythmia.
Understanding the report
Cardiac ablation results are interpreted based on the success in restoring a typical heartbeat and the elimination or reduction of heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias). After the procedure, your healthcare provider will monitor your heart rhythm and check for any recurrence of the arrhythmia. If the irregular heartbeat does not return and your heart rhythm is stabilized, it is considered a successful outcome. However, in some cases, the arrhythmia may still occur, and further treatment or adjustments might be needed. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your individual situation and the type of arrhythmia you have.