What it is

Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small area of heart tissue responsible for generating or conducting abnormal electrical signals is neutralized using a thin catheter. The goal is to locate and disable the "problem" area so the heart can return to a normal rhythm.

Which rhythm disorders it treats

Catheter ablation is used to treat various types of rhythm disorders, including:

Atrial fibrillation (irregular contraction of the atria)
Supraventricular tachycardia
Atrial flutter
Certain forms of ventricular tachycardia
Accessory pathway disorders such as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

Suitability for the procedure is assessed by the physician based on the type and frequency of the arrhythmia and the patient's overall clinical condition.

How the procedure works

The procedure is usually performed in a catheterization laboratory under local anesthesia and, if needed, sedation. General steps include:

A small puncture is made in a vein (occasionally an artery) in the groin or neck
Thin, flexible catheters are guided through the blood vessel to the heart
Electrophysiological mapping identifies the tissue area causing the arrhythmia
That area is neutralized using radiofrequency energy or freezing (cryoablation)
Heart rhythm is continuously monitored throughout the procedure

The duration of the intervention can vary depending on the nature of the arrhythmia.

Who it may be recommended for

Catheter ablation may be recommended for patients whose arrhythmia does not respond adequately to medication, who cannot tolerate medication, or who have symptomatic rhythm disorders. The final decision is made by the physician based on diagnostic findings and the patient's individual situation.

Preparation

Diagnostic tests such as ECG, Holter monitoring and echocardiography are performed beforehand
The physician should be informed of all medications, especially blood thinners
Fasting for a period before the procedure may be required — exact instructions are given by the physician
Test and examination results should be brought on the day of the procedure

After the procedure / recovery

After the procedure, the patient is monitored, the puncture site is checked, and heart rhythm is observed. Physical activity is usually limited for a short period. Recovery time varies by individual, and follow-up visits are scheduled by the physician.

Risks

As with any invasive procedure, catheter ablation carries certain risks — bleeding or bruising at the puncture site, infection, damage to heart tissue, and possible recurrence of the arrhythmia. Rare, more serious complications are also possible. Specific risks are explained by the physician according to the patient's condition.

Catheter Ablation