Atrial Flutter Ablation
Cardiac Arrhythmia Ablation
Cardiac Device Implantation
What is Atrial Flutter Ablation?
Atrial flutter ablation is a procedure used to treat an abnormal heart rhythm (atrial flutter) that originates in the atria. The procedure involves using a catheter to apply energy and create scar tissue in specific areas of the heart to interrupt the abnormal electrical circuit responsible for atrial flutter. This helps restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm.
This procedure has a 95% success rate in treating atrial flutter. However, a small percentage of patients may require a repeat procedure if atrial flutter recurs. Additionally, some patients may develop other arrhythmias from the atrium after the procedure, which may require further treatment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia (GA), meaning you will be asleep and not feel any discomfort.
- It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete.
- Catheters will be inserted into the groin (left, right, or both) under local anesthetic and guided to the heart using X-ray imaging and/or magnetic mapping technology.
- Radiofrequency energy is commonly used to create precise scar tissue in the cavotricuspid isthmus, a critical area responsible for atrial flutter.
Risks Involved
While atrial flutter ablation is a well-tolerated and effective procedure, potential risks include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.
- Sore throat due to the breathing tube used during anesthesia.
- Minor bleeding at the groin site, which can typically be controlled by applying firm pressure for 30 minutes.
- Blood clots or stroke (rare, as blood thinners are used to reduce this risk).
- Heart or lung complications, (very rare, but possible due to catheter manipulation inside the heart).
- Temporary heart rhythm disturbances as the heart adjusts post-procedure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Mild soreness in the throat from the breathing tube.
- Minor bruising or tenderness in the groin, which may take a few weeks to fully heal.
- Fatigue for a few days following the procedure.
- If minor bleeding occurs at the catheter site, apply firm pressure for 30 minutes. If it persists, seek medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Go to the Emergency Room if you experience:
- Severe pain or increasing swelling in the groin where catheters were inserted.
- Chest pain or shortness of breath.
- Vomiting blood or severe nausea.
- Uncontrolled bleeding at the catheter site.
- Stroke-like symptoms such as changes in vision, inability to speak or understand speech, difficulty walking, or loss of function in arms or legs.
Follow-Up Care
You can follow up with your regular doctor and contact our office if you have any questions or if you would like to see one of our doctors for a repeat visit. This procedure is generally curative for atrial flutter, and we do not routinely arrange a follow-up appointment with the arrhythmia specialist unless there are any concerns by you or your doctor.
If you experience recurrence of atrial fibrillation, contact our office to arrange a follow-up appointment and treatment plan.
For any concerns after the procedure, do not hesitate to reach out to our office for guidance.