Ablation can eliminate atrial fibrillation

For patients with atrial fibrillation, also known as "A-fib," ablation treatment can mean elimination of the disorder, in addition to eliminating side effects from medications that are no longer needed. Baptist Hospital East’s cardiology program offers atrial fibrillation ablation in its specially designed electrophysiology lab, part of the comprehensive cardiovascular services available at Baptist East.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder and usually involves a rapid heart rate, in which the upper heart chambers (atria) are stimulated to contract in a very disorganized and abnormal manner. Efforts are focused on the left atrium, one of the main problem areas. Radiofrequency ablation is used to destroy (or ablate) the problem areas. Small scars are created that are electrically inactive, which makes the area incapable of creating heart arrhythmias or rhythm disorders.

A catheter (or long, narrow tube) is used to deliver the ablation, guided through the patient’s veins from the upper leg to the place in the heart where the pulmonary veins enter the left atrium.

This procedure is designed for people who cannot tolerate medications or those whose medication does not maintain normal heart rhythms.

Short term benefits of atrial fibrillation include the elimination of symptoms of rapid heart rate and the ability to discontinue medications with significant side effects. Long term benefits may mean a decreased risk of heart failure and stroke in the future.

For more information on heart disease, visit the cardiovascular services section of our Web site, or call (502) 897-8131 for a physician referral. You may also visit the Physician Directory for a listing of physicians specializing in cardiovascular diseases or cardiothoracic surgery.