Do you have Arrhythmia or heart rhythm problems?
Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute provides the cardiac ablation procedure for patients in a comfortable setting. Cardiac ablations, or heart ablations, address arrhythmias. A cardiac ablation scars or destroys tissue in the heart to eliminate abnormal heart rhythm. A cardiac ablation prevents abnormal electrical impulses from reaching the heart, distributing the arrhythmia.
Common Types of Arrhythmias:
- Atrial Fibrillation
- Atrial Flutter
- Ventricular Tachycardia
Traditionally an electrophysiologist performing a cardiac ablation would use long, flexible tubes inserted through a vein or artery in the groin. These tubes will deliver RF (heat) or Cryo (cold) energy to isolate the abnormal electrical signals. The energy delivered depends on the kind of abnormal heart rhythm a patient is diagnosed with.
A cardiologist may suggest a cardiac ablation when medication is ineffective enough to keep the arrhythmia at bay. Cardiac ablation restores the heart to a normal healthy rhythm. Common types of cardiac ablations include:
- Atrial flutter ablation
- Pulmonary vein isolation
- SVT ablation
- Ventricular tachycardia ablation
Stereotaxis: Robotic Magnetic Navigation
At Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute, we are committed to providing our patients with the latest, most innovative technology. As an alternative to traditional ablation procedures, we have introduced the Stereotaxis Robotic Magnetic Navigation System to allow for safer, more effective cardiac ablation procedures.
The Stereotaxis Robotic Magnetic Navigation System allows for more precise, safer, and effective catheter positioning. An electrophysiologist operates two magnets to guide the catheters through the appropriate pathways carefully. With computer guidance and magnetic catheters, electrophysiologists can perform the traditional ablation procedure safely and more efficiently. Using robotic magnetic navigation to perform cardiac ablation reduces the amount of radiation patients are exposed to.
The Stereotaxis Robotic Magnetic Navigation System addresses heart rhythm concerns such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and tachycardia. Doctors can treat a wider range of heart rhythm problems with advanced robotic magnetic navigation.
Cardiac Ablation FAQs
How long does it take to recover from a cardiac ablation?
Recovery time is dependent on your overall health. The initial “shock to the system” causes fatigue and chest discomfort for a couple of hours after the procedure. Some patients go home the same day after the procedure, while others stay one night.
Are you put to sleep for cardiac ablation?
The anesthesiologist gives you sedation medication through an IV before the procedure. This does not put you completely to sleep. It helps keep you feel comfortable and relaxed. However, depending on your ablation procedure, you may be under full general anesthesia.
Is the cardiac ablation process painful?
No. Most patients do not feel pain during this procedure as they are under general anesthesia or conscious IV sedation. You may feel discomfort in your chest after the procedure is complete and you fully recover from anesthesia.
Are there any restrictions after an ablation?
After an ablation we ask that patients avoid heavy lifting for at least a week. This is important to give your body time to heal and recover, before putting excess strain on your muscles.
How long does fatigue last after cardiac ablation?
After a cardiac ablation, it is common for patients to feel tired, or experience shortness of breath. This may last up to 6 weeks after the procedure. If it continues any longer please contact our office.
What to expect the day after a cardiac ablation?
You may notice a few minor side effects in the days following a cardiac ablation, such as an achy chest, pain, or bruising where the catheter was put. Possible side effects also include skipped heartbeats or unsteady cardiac rhythms. In a few days, most people are able to resume their regular activities and side effects diminish.
What is the best exercise after cardiac ablation?
You can start going on slow to medium-paced walks 3 to 4 days after your treatment. If you are experiencing chest pain or shortness of breath, avoid walking until it goes away. After a week, you can resume all parts of your normal routine without concern.
Visit Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute
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Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute is a state-of-the-art heart and vascular testing and imaging facility in Dayton, OH. Our team of board-certified cardiologists and physicians helps our patients receive the diagnostic testing and procedures they need to improve their heart and vascular health. We offer a full range of services for patients with heart rhythm problems. To learn more, visit one of our convenient testing and imaging facilities. We highly recommend that you call us at 937-203-8602 or request an appointment online with our office today.