Atrial fibrillation ablation

Ablation is the use of heat (radiofrequency energy) or cold (cryo-ablation) to create burn lines that control the abnormal electrical activity. This is done by a specialized cardiologist.

Ablation is used to correct certain heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation.

The ablation procedure takes from two to four hours. It is generally done while the patient is asleep under general anesthetic. It is done as a day procedure and most people go home the same day.

Generally the first treatment for atrial fibrillation is medication. If these medications are ineffective or cause side effects, your doctor may send you to an electrophysiologist, a specialist in heart rhythm problems. The electrophysiologist will decide if ablation is the right treatment for you.

The following resources provide more information on atrial fibrillation ablation:

• Cardiac Services BC: Ablation for atrial fibrillation
• Atrial fibrillation clinic

• Royal Columbian Hospital atrial fibrillation clinic referral form