Ablation is a medical procedure used to correct certain heart rhythm conditions such as atrial flutter.
What is an ablation?
An ablation is a medical procedure that is done to correct certain heart rhythm problems such as atrial flutter. It is done by a cardiologist who specializes in heart rhythm problems — an electrophysiologist. The procedure does not require surgery.
Radiofrequency energy (heat) is used to create a scar that blocks the abnormal electrical signals. This stops the rapid heartbeats. The procedure takes about two hours and most people go home the same day. Medication is given to keep people comfortable during the ablation procedure.
Medications are usually tried first before an ablation. If they do not work well or cause side effects your doctor may send you to a specialist to see if ablation is right for you.
Resources
The following resources have more information on atrial flutter ablation: