Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

If you suffer from an abnormal heart rhythm, it may be caused by a condition called atrial fibrillation (AF). One method of treatment is a technique called ablation, which can use thermal (Radiofrequency ablation or Cryoablation)or non-thermal energy ( Pulsed Field ablation) to target and modify abnormal heart tissue. This procedure aims to interrupt the faulty electrical pathways that cause irregular heartbeats.

Atrial fibrillation ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers electrical energy to specific areas inside your heart. The energy creates small scars in the heart tissue, which block the abnormal electrical signals responsible for AF.

While ablation can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life, it does not guarantee complete relief – it is not a cure but merely reduces the burden of AF recurrence. Most procedures are successful, but some patients may require a repeat procedure.

What Happens During the Procedure?

A canula or drip will be placed in your arm to administer medications.
You will receive a local anaesthetic and a sedative / general anaesthetic to keep you comfortable.
Catheters (thin tubes) are inserted into a vein in your groin and guided to your heart using x-ray imaging.
Your cardiologist will identify the source of the abnormal rhythm and use the ablation catheter to deliver heat energy, creating a scar that blocks the faulty electrical pathway.
You may feel a mild burning sensation in your chest during the ablation, which will stop once the energy delivery ends.

Less common risks

Development of other arrhythmias
Accidental puncture of the heart or valve (may require drainage or surgery)
Chest pain
Major bruising or swelling at the puncture site (rarely requires surgery)
Stroke (may cause long-term disability)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the leg, which may travel to the lungs.
Skin injury from radiation (redness or irritation)

Pericarditis – inflammation of the heart lining, causing chest pain.
Narrowing of the veins from the lungs to the heart (may require further procedures)
Heart attack
Damage to the phrenic nerve which affects breathing muscle.
Atrial oesophageal fistula – a serious condition where a hole forms between the oesophagus and heart, potentially causing vomiting of blood, stroke, or life-threatening complications. This could require major thoracic surgery for treatment.
Death as a result of this procedure is rare.
Minor bruising

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Atrial Fibrillation Ablation