Radiofrequency Transcatheter Ablation

A radiofrequency transcatheter ablation is a non-surgical technique that disrupts parts of an abnormal electrical pathway causing an arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm).

During RF ablation, doctors insert a special electrode catheter so that it lies near the abnormal electrical pathway, then pass heat energy through it. The tip of the catheter heats up and destroys the small area of heart tissue that contains the abnormal pathway.

Patients having RF ablation may have already had an electrophysiology (EP) study done to help diagnose the abnormal pathway in the heart's electrical system. Sometimes, EP studies and RF ablations are done at the same time. The EP study is done to diagnose the problem, whereas the RF ablation is performed to treat the problem.

Before an RF ablation, the area where the catheter will be inserted is shaved, anesthetized and sterilized. In most cases this will be the groin; in some cases, the arm or neck area. Shaving and cleansing makes it easier to insert the catheters and helps to avoid infection. A small intravenous needle (IV line) is inserted into a vein in the arm, allowing medications to be injected directly into the vein as necessary. Then one or more catheters are inserted into the body and advanced toward the heart, while SIHI staff watch their progress on a video screen. The catheters are then positioned inside the heart and ablation is performed.

RF ablation procedures are generally not painful and, although patient's are awake during the procedure, it is not uncommon for them to doze off. After the procedure, patients are required to lie flat in bed for two to four hours to allow a small seal to form over the puncture in the blood vessel. Usually, heart rhythm will be monitored overnight to assess the success of the procedure. When it's time to go home, patients will need a driver.

 For More Information Contact:

Southern Illinois Heart Institute
211 South Third Street, Belleville, Il 62220
Tel: 1-800-676-SIHI (7444)
Internet: info@sihi.org