| This is a treatment procedure for cardiac arrhythmias such as supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation. |
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| An electrophysiological study is first performed to confirm the mechanism and origin of the arrhythmia. (See TESTS: ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY STUDY for more information) |
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| An ablation catheter, similar to the catheters used for the EP study, is positioned at the site of origin of the arrhythmia. The ablation catheter is connected externally to a radiofrequency generator. Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the tip of the ablation catheter. This heats up the tissue in contact with the tip and renders the arrhythmia no longer inducible at the end of the procedure. |
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| At the end of the procedure, all the catheters are removed and pressure is applied at the entry sites till bleeding has stopped and a bandage is applied. After the procedure, the patient is put on bed rest for 6-8 hours and his vital signs are monitored. The next day, the groin is checked for signs of bleeding and if there are no complications, he is discharged from hospital. After discharge, he may resume normal activities like walking, but strenuous physical exercise is not advised for two weeks in order to allow the heart tissue to heal. He may be required to continue with medication as prescribed by the electrophysiologist. |
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| X Ray pictures showing electrophysiology and ablation catheters in the heart |
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| Ablation using Advanced Mapping System |
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| Ablation of AF with advanced mapping system |
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