Treatment FAQ

what is heart ablation treatment

by Orland Ernser PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How long does it take to recover from heart ablation surgery?

Heart ablation, also known as cardiac ablation, is a procedure done to fix heart rhythm disorders and arrhythmias. This procedure scars the tissue that causes abnormal heart rhythms, allowing your heart to beat regularly. Why is Heart Ablation Done Heart ablation is used to fix interruptions and irregularities in your heartbeat.

How serious is a heart ablation surgery?

Apr 01, 2022 · Cardiac ablation is a procedure that is used to scar small areas in your heart that may be involved in your heart rhythm problems. This can prevent the abnormal electrical signals or rhythms from moving through the heart. During the procedure, small wires called electrodes are placed inside your heart to measure your heart's electrical activity.

What to expect after a cardiac catheter ablation?

Nov 21, 2016 · Heart ablation is a procedure used to treat heart conditions that include a number of heart rhythm problems or in some cases enlargement of the heart known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Heart ablation is in general a catheter-based procedure (such as TAVR for aortic stenosis or Mitraclip for mitral regurgitation ) that means it is performed through small tubes …

How much does heart ablation surgery cost?

Apr 29, 2013 · Ablation is a procedure that may be done to treat heart rhythm problems. It uses a small tube called a catheter to deliver energy to the inside of the heart. The energy (usually radio waves) scars small areas of heart tissue. The scars block abnormal electrical pathways in the heart and help you have a normal heart rhythm.

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How serious is heart ablation surgery?

In general, cardiac (heart) catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure and risks and complications are rare. Catheter ablation may require an overnight stay in the hospital though most patients can return home the same day as the procedure.Aug 18, 2020

How long does it take to recover from heart ablation surgery?

Recovery from heart ablation surgery typically takes about 1 week. Discomfort or soreness in the area where the catheter was inserted is normal, and you should be able to resume normal activities within a few days. However, you should avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous workouts for at least 1-2 weeks.Dec 22, 2021

Why would someone need an ablation of the heart?

Ablation is a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation. It uses small burns or freezes to cause some scarring on the inside of the heart to help break up the electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats. This can help the heart maintain a normal heart rhythm. The heart has 4 chambers.

Is cardiac ablation worth the risk?

Risks of Catheter Ablation Catheter ablation is a safe, effective treatment for AFib and certain other arrhythmias. Although rare, the risks of these procedures include: Bleeding, infection, and/or pain where the catheter was inserted. Blood clots (rare), which can travel to the lungs or brain and cause stroke.

Is a heart ablation painful?

Most people do not feel pain during the procedure. You may sense mild discomfort in your chest. After the ablation is over, your doctor will remove the guide wire and catheters from your chest.

Do you gain weight after cardiac ablation?

The patients also have to keep the weight off for up to a year. Patients who quickly gained the weight back or even gained more than they weighed at their ablation had the worst outcomes." Over the course of three years, Dr. Bunch followed more than 400 patients who had had the ablation procedure.Nov 8, 2015

Does heart ablation shorten life span?

The study published in Heart Rhythm shows cardiovascular mortality dropped by 60 percent among adults who had their normal heart rhythm restored through catheter ablation.Jul 30, 2014

Are you awake during a heart ablation?

What can I expect during surgical ablation? During surgical ablation, you can expect the following: General anesthesia (the patient is asleep) or local anesthesia with sedation (the patient is awake but relaxed and pain-free) may be used, depending on the individual case.Mar 7, 2009

What is the success rate of cardiac ablation?

Pros of Ablation Higher success rate On average, ablation has a 70 to 80 percent success rate. Those who are young, whose afib is intermittent, and who have no underlying heart disease, can have success rates as high as 95 percent.Jul 8, 2016

Who is not a candidate for cardiac ablation?

People who may not be ideal candidates for cardiac ablation for afib include: People whose heart has become very enlarged. Cardiac ablation is less effective when that's the case. People who've had afib for a long time—it doesn't work as well for those who've had it several months or longer.

Do you have to take blood thinners after an ablation?

Catheter ablation, which destroys a small area of heart tissue that's causing the problematic beats, is recommended for high-risk patients. Patients typically continue to take blood thinners, regardless of whether the ablation procedure was effective.Mar 17, 2017

How do I get rid of AFib forever?

When you have atrial fibrillation, or AFib, your heart has an irregular, sometimes quick rhythm. The condition can boost your chances for a stroke, heart failure, or other heart problems. Right now, there's no cure for it.Aug 14, 2020

How to perform cardiac ablation?

While there are two approaches to performing cardiac ablation (surgical Maze technique or catheter ablation procedure), there are different types of heart ablation techniques. Depending on your arrhythmia condition your doctor may recommend radiofrequency or heat, and Cryo or cold, including: 1 Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) Ablation: This type of ablation uses hot or cold energy to destroy the tissue causing abnormal heart rhythms. 2 Atrial Flutter Ablation: If you have a fluttering heartbeat, this type of ablation may be best for you as it creates scar tissue to stop the arrhythmia. 3 Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation: This type of ablation is meant for hearts that are beating rapidly and inconsistently. This ablation will help stop the signals from creating abnormal heartbeats.

What is the purpose of ablation?

Heart ablation is used to fix interruptions and irregularities in your heartbeat. These heart rhythm disorders may include: Atrial fibrillation (Afib): This is the most common heart arrhythmia. Afib occurs when the heart beats rapidly in the upper chambers of the heart.

What is Banner Health?

Banner Health provides safe and innovative heart ablation procedure services to help get your heart back on track. Our cardiac experts are here to provide comprehensive care for you and your loved ones during your journey to a healthier heart.

What is cardiac ablation?

Cardiac ablation is used to treat certain heart rhythm problems that medicines are not controlling. These problems may be dangerous if they are not treated. Common symptoms of heart rhythm problems may include: Chest pain. Fainting.

How to perform cardiac ablation?

There are two methods for performing cardiac ablation: 1 Radiofrequency ablation uses heat energy to eliminate the problem area. 2 Cryoablation uses very cold temperatures.

What is the difference between radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation?

Radiofrequency ablation uses heat energy to eliminate the problem area. Cryoablation uses very cold temperatures. The type of procedure you have will depend on what kind of abnormal heart rhythm you have. Cardiac ablation procedures are done in a hospital laboratory by trained staff.

How long does catheter ablation last?

This creates a small scar that causes the heart rhythm problem to stop. Catheter ablation is a long procedure. It can last 4 or more hours. During the procedure your heart will be monitored closely. A health care provider may ask you if you are having symptoms at different times during the procedure.

How long do you have to stay in bed after a catheter?

You will be kept in bed for at least 1 hour. You may need to stay in bed for up to 5 or 6 hours. Your heart rhythm will be checked during this time.

What is ablation?

Ablation is a procedure that may be done to treat heart rhythm problems. It uses a small tube called a catheter to deliver energy to the inside of the heart. The energy (usually radio waves) scars small areas of heart tissue. The scars block abnormal electrical pathways in the heart and help you have a normal heart rhythm.

When is it done?

Ablation may be done when abnormal pathways in the heart carry electrical signals that make the heart beat too fast or irregularly. The abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) can be caused by many things, including problems with the heart valves, coronary artery disease, heart failure, drug use, and some medicines, or the cause may not be known.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

Make plans for your care and recovery after you have the procedure. Find someone to give you a ride when you are ready to go home after the procedure. Allow for time to rest and try to find other people to help with your day-to-day tasks while you recover.

What happens after the procedure?

You may be able to go home the same day or you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure.

What are the risks of this procedure?

Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure and any risks. Some possible risks include:

What are the risks of ablation?

Possible atrial fibrillation ablation risks include: 1 Bleeding or infection at the site where the catheters were inserted 2 Blood vessel damage 3 Heart valve damage 4 New or worsening arrhythmia 5 Slow heart rate that could require a pacemaker to correct 6 Blood clots in your legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism) 7 Stroke or heart attack 8 Narrowing of the veins that carry blood between your lungs and heart (pulmonary vein stenosis) 9 Damage to your kidneys from dye used during the procedure 10 Death in rare cases

What is the treatment for irregular heartbeats called?

Atrial fibrillation ablation is a treatment for an irregular and chaotic heartbeat called atrial fibrillation (A-fib). It uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in your heart to block the abnormal electrical signals and restore a normal heartbeat.

How long does it take for a cryoablation to work?

If you have severe pain or shortness of breath, let your doctor know. The procedure usually takes three to six hours.

What happens after a catheter is inserted?

Following your procedure, you'll be moved to a recovery area to rest quietly to prevent bleeding from the site where the catheters were inserted into the blood vessels. Your heartbeat and blood pressure will be monitored continuously to check for complications.

What is catheter ablation?

Catheter ablation is a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy (similar to microwave heat) to destroy a small area of heart tissue that is causing rapid and irregular heartbeats. Destroying this tissue helps restore your heart’s regular rhythm.

How long does it take for a catheter to ablate?

Catheter ablation usually takes 2 to 4 hours. If you have more than one area of abnormal tissue, the procedure will take longer.

What is the procedure called when you have an arrhythmia?

Catheter ablation is a low-risk procedure that is successful in most people who have it. This procedure takes place in a special hospital room called an electrophysiology (EP) lab or a cardiac catheterization (cath) lab.

Can you go home the same day?

You can usually go home the same day, or you may have to stay overnight. NOTE: During this procedure, the tip of a catheter is guided to the area of heart tissue that is producing abnormal electrical signals.

What are abnormal cells in the heart?

Abnormal cells may create disorganized electrical signals that cause irregular or rapid heartbeats called arrhythmias.

How long before a blood test can you eat?

Your doctor will tell you what to eat and drink during the 24 hours before the test. Usually, you’ll be asked not to eat or drink anything for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. Tell your doctor about any medicines you take. He or she may ask you not to take them before your test.

Where is the IV procedure done?

A doctor with special training performs the procedure along with a team of nurses and technicians. The procedure is done in a hospital EP or cath lab. A nurse will put an IV (intravenous line) into a vein in your arm so you can get medicine (anesthesia) to prevent pain.

What is cardiac ablation?

Cardiac ablation, a minimally invasive treatment, can successfully treat many arrhythmias, preventing serious complications such as sudden cardiac arrest. Doctors at Stanford are at the forefront of research to improve cardiac ablation using the latest technologies.

What is Stanford Medicine Online?

The Stanford Medicine Online Second Opinion program offers you easy access to our world-class doctors. It’s all done remotely and you don’t have to visit our hospital or one of our clinics for this service. You don’t even need to leave home!

What is the number to call for a second opinion?

Visit our online second opinion page to learn more. If you are a new patient and want to request and appointment or need help finding a doctor, please call 650-723-6459, Option 3. If you are a returning patient, call 650-723-6459, Option 2, to request an appointment.

What is heart ablation surgery?

What is a heart ablation surgery? Heart ablation or cardiac ablation is a procedure done to rectify problems with heart rhythm (arrhythmias). It is a low-risk procedure that involves scarring or destroying the tissue in the heart, which triggers an abnormal heart rhythm.

What is radiofrequency ablation?

High-energy radio waves ( radiofrequency ablation ): The physician inserts a catheter to send a strong radio wave that ultimately scars each vein or a group of veins. Cryoablation: The physician uses a probe with a very cold temperature to freeze the tissue to cause a scar.

How do you know if you have a heart attack?

Angina, shortness of breath, and sweating are just a few symptoms that may indicate a heart attack. Treatment of heart disease involves control of heart disease risk factors through lifestyle changes, medications, and/or stenting or bypass surgery. Heart disease can be prevented by controlling heart disease risk factors.

How to stop bleeding from blood thinners?

Stop smoking a few days before the procedure. Stop drinking or eating anything after midnight the night before your procedure.

Where is the catheter placed in the heart?

The physician places the catheter at the precise site inside the heart where the unusual tissues are present. Radiofrequency energy is sent through a catheter that destroys the heart muscles in a tiny area, which is responsible for abnormal heart rhythms.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Symptoms of heart failure include. congested lungs, fluid and water retention, dizziness, fatigue and weakness, and. rapid or irregular heartbeats. There are two types of congestive heart failure, systolic or left-sided heart failure; and diastolic or right-sided heart failure.

How to reduce the risk of heart disease?

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease. To achieve maximum benefits, do a mix of stretching exercises, aerobic activity, and strengthening exercise. Aim to get 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three to four times a week.

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Why It's Done

A procedure to stop abnormal electrical signals in the heart.

Treatment for: Arrhythmia · Atrial Fibrillation · Atrial Flutter · Premature Ventricular Contractions · Supraventricular Tachycardia and more

Type of procedure: Minimally invasive

Recovery time: Can take several days

Duration: About 3-6 hours

Hospital stay: Typically a few hours

Risks

How You Prepare

What You Can Expect

  • Cardiac ablation is a procedure that's used to correct heart rhythm problems. When the heart beats, the electrical signals that cause the heart to squeeze (contract) must follow a specific pathway through the heart. Any disruption in the signaling pathway can trigger an irregular heart…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Results

  • Possible cardiac ablation risks include: 1. Bleeding or infection at the site where the catheter was inserted 2. Blood vessel damage 3. Heart valve damage 4. New or worsening arrhythmia 5. Slow heart rate that could require a pacemaker to correct 6. Blood clots in the legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism) 7. Stroke or heart attack 8. Narrowing of the veins that carry blood between t…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Clinical Trials

  • Your health care provider may order several tests to get more information about your heart condition before your cardiac ablation. You'll need to stop eating and drinking the night before your procedure. Your care provider will tell you how or if you should continue any medications before a cardiac ablation.
See more on mayoclinic.org

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