Video coming soon — Dr. Luni explains catheter ablation in plain language
What is catheter ablation?
Catheter ablation involves inserting thin, flexible tubes (catheters) through a vein in the groin and guiding them into the heart using X-ray imaging. Once inside the heart, the catheters map the electrical activity to locate the source of the arrhythmia. Energy is then delivered through the catheter tip to destroy (ablate) the small area of tissue causing the problem.
What to expect during the procedure
- You will be sedated — most patients are under general anesthesia or deep sedation and feel nothing
- The procedure takes 2-4 hours depending on the arrhythmia
- Catheters are inserted through a small puncture in the groin vein — no open surgery
- A detailed 3D electrical map of your heart is created before ablation
- Most patients are monitored overnight and go home the next day
What happens after ablation?
Most patients feel mild chest soreness or fatigue for a few days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 1-2 weeks. It can take 2-3 months for the full benefit of ablation to become apparent — this is normal and expected, as the ablation sites heal and the heart stabilizes.
Types of energy used in ablation
- Radiofrequency (RF): Heat energy — the traditional and most widely used form
- Cryoablation: Freezing energy — commonly used for certain types of AFib ablation
- Pulsed field ablation (PFA): Electrical pulses — the newest technology with an excellent safety profile
Dr. Luni performs catheter ablation for AFib, atrial flutter, SVT, and ventricular tachycardia — including pulsed field ablation (PFA), the most advanced ablation technology currently available.