Catheter Ablation in Afib Pt. 2
Catheter ablation is an advanced treatment for AFib that targets and eliminates the abnormal heart cells responsible for the arrhythmia. Unlike medications that manage symptoms, ablation uses catheters inserted through leg veins to deliver energy (heat, cold, or electrical pulses) directly to these cells, aiming to stop them from causing AFib.
Key Points Covered
- Objective: Eliminate or isolate AFib-causing heart cells to restore normal rhythm.
- Procedure: Conducted in an Electrophysiology Lab using specialized catheters.
- Effectiveness: Higher success rates in early AFib stages; may require multiple attempts for advanced cases.
- Risks: Includes stroke, heart structure damage, and bleeding; risks increase with age and AFib complexity.
- Comparison:
- Medications: Only manage symptoms and do not eliminate AFib.
- Long-Term Management: Blood thinners may still be needed post-ablation to prevent stroke risk.
Catheter ablation offers significant relief from AFib symptoms by targeting the root cause. Patients considering this treatment should weigh the potential benefits against procedural risks, considering their health, symptoms, and treatment goals. Treatment decisions should be personalized based on individual circumstances.