Atrial Flutter Ablation

Our Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure targets and eliminates the heart cells that emit abnormal signals responsible for the accelerated heart rate associated with Atrial Flutter.

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An illustration of a heart with an Atrial Flutter problem is explained with pulse signals of a typical heartbeat and with Atrial Flutter.

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Atrial Flutter Ablation: A Comprehensive Guide

Atrial Flutter Ablation is an advanced medical procedure done with 3D mapping guidance. It is designed to strategically create scar tissue within the heart's upper chamber. This purposefully positioned tissue serves to intercept and obstruct the abnormal electrical signals that trigger a rapid, fluttering heartbeat.

This condition, known as Atrial Flutter, results from an erratic electrical messaging system within the heart, causing the upper chambers, or atria, to beat excessively fast. The primary objective of Atrial Flutter Ablation is to interrupt these irregular signals, consequently reinstating a normal, steady heart rhythm.

By effectively managing the symptoms linked to Atrial Flutter, this treatment approach can markedly control the indicators and symptoms associated with this heart condition. Achieving a regular heart rhythm through Atrial Flutter Ablation can significantly enhance the patient's quality of life, paving the way towards better health.

With the best interventional cardiologist at the helm of your medical journey, you can be assured of exceptional care and treatment outcomes. Not only does he bring a wealth of experience and a track record of success in the field of cardiology, but he also fosters a compassionate approach towards patient care.

The image illustrates the Atrial Flutter Ablation.

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The image shows different Cardiac ablation in Treating a Spectrum of Arrhythmias.

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Cardiac Ablation: Treating a Spectrum of Arrhythmias

Cardiac ablation, a breakthrough therapeutic approach in cardiology, offers a solution for a variety of arrhythmias as well as certain structural heart diseases. This innovative procedure is not only used to treat Atrial Flutter but is also effective in managing several supraventricular arrhythmia conditions:

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT)
Atrial Tachycardia
Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT)

Atrial Flutter Ablation Procedure- Evaluation Process

Before embarking on the Atrial Flutter Ablation journey, patients will engage in a comprehensive consultation with Dr.Karthigesan, which includes the recording of a detailed medical history. In addition, the following diagnostic tests are typically recommended:

ECG
Echocardiogram
Blood test

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The image shows Atrial Flutter Ablation in the heart.

Image Credit: thephysiologist.org

The Atrial Flutter Ablation Procedure

The Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure typically lasts between 2-3 hours
It has been established as a highly successful intervention, often outperforming drug therapy in terms of effectiveness.
This minimally invasive, keyhole procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia, with IV sedation, ensuring patient comfort throughout.
The process begins with the insertion of electrical catheters through the groin. The positioning of these catheters is guided by X-rays and the electrical readings from inside the heart.
The main objective of the Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure is to ablate or remove a critical region of tissue in the right atrium which supports the atrial flutter circuit. This strategic interruption breaks the circuit, preventing the recurrence of atrial flutter.
To enhance precision and efficacy, advanced 3D mapping systems such as CARTO or ENSITE technology are utilised.
These high-tech tools facilitate accurate identification and elimination of the flutter circuit, delivering Radio Frequency (RF) energy with an accuracy of 1mm to the desired location. An additional benefit of these systems is a significant reduction in radiation exposure to the patient.
This new advancement in 3D technology enhances the success rate of RF ablation even further, proving particularly useful in complex arrhythmias.
RF Ablation carries an impressive success rate of 95% in curing atrial flutter. However, it is important to note that there is a 5-10% chance that the flutter may return at a later stage.

What to Expect Before/During/After the Procedure

Before the Procedure

During the Procedure

After the Procedure

Certain medications may need to be discontinued approximately 5 days prior to the procedure Your doctor will provide detailed instructions specific to your medication regimen.
If you're taking blood thinners, these will typically need to be stopped 24-48 hours before the procedure. Specific instructions will be given to ensure safe discontinuation and resumption.
On the day before the procedure, you will undergo a CT scan or a transesophageal echo of your heart. This imaging will be instrumental during your ablation procedure.
A fasting period of at least six hours is usually required before the procedure.
Ensure that you inform your doctor if there is any chance that you might be pregnant.

Depending on your specific case, the procedure can be performed either under sedation with a local anaesthetic to ensure your ease and comfort or under general anaesthesia, which allows you to be completely asleep during the procedure.
Throughout the procedure, your oxygen saturation levels will be continuously tracked. A small device, usually attached to your finger, will be used for this purpose.
The doctor will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the catheters will be inserted. It's possible that you might experience an acceleration in your heartbeat once the catheters are positioned.
In the event that your heart is displaying a normal rhythm at the time of the procedure, your doctor might decide to provoke atrial flutter. This allows the doctor to accurately identify the flutter's location, thereby enabling targeted and effective treatment.

In most cases, patients are recommended to stay overnight in the hospital for continuous monitoring of their heart rhythm.
Patients typically require approximately one week off work to recover and rest post‑procedure.
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your heart's response to the ablation procedure. These routine checkups help ensure the ongoing success of your treatment.
While the procedure boasts a high success rate, there remains a small chance of atrial flutter returning. Should this occur, the procedure may be repeated, or other treatment options might be considered.

Benefits of Ablation Therapy for Atrial Flutter

Catheter ablation has been shown to effectively alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with Atrial Flutter, such as palpitation, shortness of breath, fatigue, or weakness.
The procedure can greatly enhance your daily comfort and well‑being.
Post-ablation, patients often experience a substantial reduction in the frequency of hospital admissions and emergency department visits.
The need for powerful and toxic antiarrhythmic drugs can be avoided, simplifying medication routines.
For those struggling with heart failure, RF Ablation Therapy can bring about marked improvements in activity capacity, empowering you to lead a more active and fulfilling life.

Reclaim Your Life

From the Grips of Atrial Flutter

Don't let Atrial Flutter dictate the rhythm of your life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Karthigesan today and embark on a journey towards improved heart health.

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Atrial Flutter Ablation Procedure- Your Queries Answered

How effective is the ablation procedure for Atrial Flutter?

Ablation for Atrial Flutter tends to be highly successful, boasting a success rate of 95% or more. The procedure successfully restores normal rhythm in the majority of patients. However, it's important to note that atrial flutter can recur in approximately less than 5% of cases. Those with atypical Atrial Flutter may experience slightly lower success rates.

What potential risks or complications are associated with an Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure?

The Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure has a relatively low complication rate of less than 1%. Though rare, complications can include heart block, stroke, accidental cardiac perforation, infection, and bleeding.

If the initial Ablation procedure doesn't achieve the desired results, can it be repeated?

Yes, the Ablation procedure can be performed multiple times, if necessary, to cure Atrial Flutter. It does not cause significant damage to the heart. In fact, by restoring normal heart rhythm, Ablation often significantly improves heart function and reduces the risk of stroke.

Why would a doctor recommend Atrial Flutter Ablation?

Atrial Flutter Ablation is usually recommended to avoid powerful lifelong antiarrhythmic medications, repeated hospitalisations, chances of heart failure and stroke, and to improve quality of life.

What is the expected recovery time following an Atrial Flutter Ablation procedure?

Typically, patients are able to resume normal activities the day after returning home from the hospital. However, it's advisable to wait three days before engaging in physically demanding activities. In the short term, patients will need to take anticoagulants without any missed doses to prevent blood clot formation. In the long term, the continued use of anticoagulants will be determined by Dr.Karthigesan. It may be recommended if there are any signs of persistent atrial flutter or other abnormal rhythms.