Our Summary

This study looked at the use of catheter ablation (a procedure that uses energy to make small scars in your heart tissue to stop abnormal heart rhythms) in patients in the United States from 2000 to 2013. It found that over half a million of these procedures were performed during this time period, mostly on men around the age of 62. The study also found that the number of these procedures being performed each year, as well as the average age of the patients and the length of their hospital stay, increased over time. Interestingly, hospitals that didn’t perform this procedure very often had a higher rate of complications. Other factors that increased the risk of complications included being older, having other health problems, and being a woman. The results of this study suggest that as the use of catheter ablation increases, so do the risks associated with the procedure.

FAQs

  1. How many catheter ablation procedures were performed in the United States from 2000 to 2013 according to the study?
  2. What factors were found to increase the risk of complications in catheter ablation procedures?
  3. Did the study find any correlation between the number of procedures performed by a hospital and the rate of complications?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cardiac ablation is to make sure to follow all pre-procedure instructions, such as fasting before the procedure and taking any prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed and prepared. After the procedure, it is important to follow all post-procedure care instructions, including taking any prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and monitoring for any signs of complications. Following these guidelines can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cardiac ablation are those who have been diagnosed with certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, that have not responded to medication or other treatments. These patients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath. Additionally, patients who are at high risk for complications of their abnormal heart rhythms, such as stroke or heart failure, may also be recommended for cardiac ablation. It is important for patients to discuss their individual medical history and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if cardiac ablation is the right choice for them.

Timeline

  • Patient is diagnosed with an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) and is recommended for cardiac ablation by their cardiologist.
  • Patient undergoes pre-procedure testing, such as blood work and imaging studies, to assess their overall health and the specific characteristics of their arrhythmia.
  • Patient is instructed to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, in preparation for the procedure.
  • Patient arrives at the hospital or outpatient facility on the day of the procedure and is prepped for the ablation, which may involve sedation or general anesthesia.
  • During the procedure, catheters are inserted through blood vessels in the groin or neck and guided to the heart. Energy is then delivered through the catheters to create small scars in the heart tissue that disrupt the abnormal electrical signals causing the arrhythmia.
  • After the ablation is completed, the catheters are removed and the patient is monitored closely for any complications.
  • Patient is typically observed in the hospital for a period of time to ensure they are stable and recovering well.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort or soreness at the catheter insertion site, but this generally resolves within a few days.
  • Patient is discharged home with instructions for post-procedure care, including restrictions on physical activity and medications to manage any symptoms.
  • Patient follows up with their cardiologist in the weeks and months following the ablation to monitor their heart rhythm and assess the effectiveness of the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of cardiac ablation in treating my specific heart condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with cardiac ablation?
  3. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before deciding on cardiac ablation?
  4. How many times have you performed cardiac ablation procedures, and what is your success rate?
  5. How long will the recovery process be after the procedure, and what lifestyle changes may be necessary?
  6. Will I need to take any medications after the procedure, and if so, what are the potential side effects?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments to monitor my heart health after the procedure?
  8. What can I expect in terms of long-term outcomes and potential need for future procedures?
  9. Are there any specific restrictions or limitations I should be aware of after undergoing cardiac ablation?
  10. Can you explain the expected benefits of cardiac ablation in improving my quality of life and overall heart health?

Reference

Authors: Hosseini SM, Rozen G, Saleh A, Vaid J, Biton Y, Moazzami K, Heist EK, Mansour MC, Kaadan MI, Vangel M, Ruskin JN. Journal: JACC Clin Electrophysiol. 2017 Nov;3(11):1240-1248. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2017.05.005. Epub 2017 Aug 2. PMID: 29759619