| Cardiac Ablation Catheter |
|
What is it? A cardiac ablation catheter is a long, thin tube that is threaded into or onto the heart to destroy (ablate) an area of heart tissue that is causing abnormal heart rhythms. When is it used? Cardiac ablation catheters are used to treat abnormally rapid heartbeats that cannot be controlled with medication, or in patients that cannot tolerate these medications. They are used most often to treat abnormal rhythms that begin in the upper heart chambers (atria). Some examples are: Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) Atrial Tachycardia Atrial Flutter Less often, ablation can be used to treat heart rhythm disorders of the lower heart chambers (ventricles). How does it work? The cardiac ablation catheter is inserted into a blood vessel (artery or vein), usually through a site in the upper leg or neck. The tube is advanced through the blood vessels until it reaches the heart. The catheter is navigated by images created by fluoroscopy – a type of x-ray machine. In the heart, electrodes at the catheter tip gather data that pinpoint the location of faulty tissue in the heart (electrical mapping). Once the site is identified, the device delivers either radiofrequency energy (RF ablation) or intense cold (cryoablation) to destroy the small section of tissue. What will it accomplish? Cardiac catheter ablation is a relatively non-invasive procedure that can restore a normal heart rhythm. It can eliminate the need for open-heart surgery or long-term drug therapies. What are the risks? During catheter insertion, the heart or a blood vessel may be perforated or damaged. Other potential complications include interruption of normal impulse conduction, stroke, heart attack, and death. Your doctor will tell you more about the risks associated with cardiac ablation. When should it not be used? Catheter ablation should not be used in patients who have a blood infection or in patients who can not tolerate certain catheter placement approaches. |
