Centres/Interventional Cardiology/Radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation of arrhythmias

Curative treatment of heart rhythm disorders that neutralises, with a radiofrequency current, the area of the heart responsible for the arrhythmia.

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What is it?

Radiofrequency ablation is a modern and often definitive treatment for heart rhythm disorders. It involves precisely locating the area of the heart responsible for the arrhythmia, then neutralising it by locally delivering radiofrequency energy at the tip of a catheter, without any surgical incision. The procedure begins with an electrophysiology study that maps the electrical activity of the heart and locates the abnormal circuit. The ablation catheter is then positioned exactly on the target, and the application of radiofrequency creates a tiny area of inactivated tissue that interrupts the arrhythmia circuit. This technique applies to many rhythm disorders: junctional tachycardias, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, certain extrasystoles and ventricular tachycardias. In many cases, it can cure the arrhythmia and put an end to long-term drug treatment. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, ablations are performed in a dedicated electrophysiology laboratory, equipped with a three-dimensional arrhythmia mapping system and latest-generation catheters, by a team specialised in interventional heart rhythm care.

When is it indicated?

Recurrent junctional tachycardias

These episodes of a racing heart, often troublesome in daily life, are linked to a small abnormal electrical circuit that ablation can most often eliminate definitively.

Atrial flutter

This rhythm disorder follows a well-known circuit in the atrium; ablation interrupts this circuit and offers excellent lasting results.

Symptomatic atrial fibrillation

When this common arrhythmia causes palpitations, fatigue or breathlessness, ablation helps restore a regular rhythm and a better quality of life.

Numerous and troublesome ventricular extrasystoles

Very frequent extra beats can become distressing and tire the heart over time; neutralising their source makes these symptoms disappear.

Arrhythmias poorly controlled by medication or in patients wishing to avoid it

When drug treatment is insufficient, poorly tolerated or burdensome, ablation offers a lasting alternative that often allows medication to be stopped.

Preparation

1Complete cardiology work-up with documentation of the arrhythmia

2Blood tests including coagulation

3Adjustment of antiarrhythmic and anticoagulant treatments as prescribed

4Fast for 6 hours before the procedure

5Anaesthesia consultation

Procedure

Positioning in the electrophysiology laboratory, local anaesthesia with appropriate sedation

Introduction of the catheters through a vein at the groin crease

Electrical mapping of the heart and precise location of the abnormal circuit

Application of radiofrequency energy to the target area

Verification of the disappearance of the arrhythmia by stimulation tests

Removal of the catheters and monitoring in a specialised unit

Duration

2 to 4 hours depending on the type of arrhythmia

Results

In the majority of cases, ablation brings a marked improvement or even complete disappearance of the arrhythmia. Discharge usually takes place after 24 to 48 hours of monitoring, with a rapid return to daily activities and scheduled heart rhythm follow-up.

Risks and side effects

Bruising at the puncture site, most often benign

Possible recurrence of the arrhythmia, which may justify a second procedure

Rare serious complications, prevented by continuous monitoring and the team's experience

These risks remain rare. Your physician will inform you in detail before the examination.

Book an Appointment

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At a glance

Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on the type of arrhythmia

Preparation: Required

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