The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is radiofrequency catheter ablation? " � Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a procedure that is used to treat certain conditions that cause the heart to beat too fast. This procedure is done in the hospital. � �
How do normal heartbeats happen? " � A normal heartbeat happens when an electrical signal starts in 1 spot near the top of the heart. This electrical signal follows a path to spread across the heart. As it spreads, the signal causes the heart muscle to squeeze. Each time the heart squeezes ( "beats " �), blood is sent all over the body. Normally, the heart beats in a regular way 60 to 80 times a minute. � �
What can cause the heart to beat too fast? " � The heart can beat too fast when: � �
- The electrical signal starts in the wrong part of the heart
- The electrical signal follows the wrong path as it spreads across the heart
People with heart problems as well as those with healthy hearts can have heartbeats that are too fast. � �
How does radiofrequency catheter ablation work? " � Radiofrequency catheter ablation destroys the part of the heart that is creating or spreading abnormal electrical signals. After the procedure, the heart can beat normally again. � �
How do I get ready for the procedure? " � Your doctor will tell you what to do to get ready for the procedure. For example, you might need to stop taking certain medicines. � �
What happens during the procedure? " � When the procedure starts you will get medicines to make you sleepy. Then the doctor will insert a thin tube called a "catheter " � into a large blood vessel in your leg or another part of your body. Next he or she will guide the catheter into your heart. Using wires that are inside the catheter, the doctor will apply a special type of energy to the parts of the heart causing the fast heartbeat. This destroys that tissue, so that it can no longer affect the heartbeat. At the end of the procedure, the doctor removes the catheter and wires. � �
What happens after the procedure? " � After the procedure, your doctor or nurse will tell you which medicines you should take. He or she will also tell you which activities you should avoid. � �
What are some downsides of the procedure? " � Downsides of the procedure can include: � �
- Bleeding, bruising, or getting an infection in the area where the catheter was put in
- Damage to the heart from the wires
- Changes in the heartbeat " � Some people who have changes in their heartbeat might need to have a pacemaker put in. A pacemaker is a device that can keep a persons heartbeat normal. It is put under the skin in the upper chest and has wires that connect to the heart.
- Blood clots that form in a vein and then travel to the lungs or brain
Is radiofrequency catheter ablation the only treatment for a fast heartbeat? " � No. Doctors can use other treatments for a fast heartbeat. These can include medicines, procedures, or surgery. � �
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 15668 Version 5.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.The use of UpToDate content is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use. � �2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
Copyright
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �