what Is an Arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah) is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm.A heartbeat that is too fast is called tachycardia (TAK-ih-KAR-de-ah). A heartbeat that is too slow is called bradycardia (bray-de-KAR-de-ah).Most arrhythmias are harmless, but some can be serious or even life threatening. During an arrhythmia, the heart may not be able to pump enough blood to the body. Lack of blood flow can damage the brain, heart, and other organs.
What Is Catheter Ablation?
Catheter ablation is a medical procedure used to treat some types of irregular heartbeats.
During catheter ablation, a series of catheters (thin, flexible wires) are put into a blood vessel in your arm, groin (upper thigh), or neck. The wires are guided into your heart through the blood vessel.
A special machine sends energy to your heart through one of the catheters. The energy destroys small areas of heart tissue where abnormal heartbeats may cause an arrhythmia to start.
Catheter ablation often involves radiofrequency (RF) energy. This type of energy uses radio waves to produce heat that destroys the heart tissue. Studies have shown that RF energy works well and is safe.
Types of Arrhythmia
The four main types of arrhythmia are
- Bradyarrhythmias .
- Premature (extra) beats,
- Supraventricular arrhythmias,
- Ventricular arrhythmias
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of an Arrhythmia?
More serious signs and symptoms include:
How Are Arrhythmias Diagnosed?
Specialists Involved
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
Who Needs Catheter Ablation?
Who Needs Catheter Ablation?
Your doctor may recommend catheter ablation if:
01
You have an arrhythmia that medicine can't control
02
You can't tolerate the medicine your doctor has prescribed for your arrhythmia.
03
You have certain types of arrhythmia. (Your doctor can tell you whether catheter ablation can help treat your arrhythmia.)
Arrythimias that can be treated by radiofrequency catheter ablations
- PSVT
- WPW syndrome
- Atrial tachycardia
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Atrial fibrillation