Ablation

The procedure is usually performed in an electrophysiology laboratory under mild sedation (drowsiness) or local anesthesia. Thin, flexible tubes (catheters) are guided to the heart by entering through a vein in the groin. First, the focus causing the palpitation is found (mapping), and then that area is neutralized by applying heat or cold energy from its tip.

Depending on the type and complexity of the rhythm disorder, the procedure time can vary between 1 hour and 4 hours. Because local anesthesia is applied to the groin area, the procedure is painless; however, a temporary sensation of palpitation or mild burning in the chest may be experienced while searching for the focus of the palpitation in the heart.

It is applied as a definitive treatment especially in patients who do not respond to drug treatment or do not want to use medication, and for arrhythmias that reduce the quality of life such as Atrial Fibrillation (AF), Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), and Ventricular Tachycardia (VT).

After ablation, patients are usually kept under observation in the hospital for one night and discharged the next day. Normal life is resumed within a few days. The success rate varies between 80% and 98% depending on the arrhythmia, providing a lifelong permanent cure for many patients.