SVT Ablation Procedure

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) ablation is a medical procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms, specifically supraventricular tachycardia. The goal of the procedure is to destroy or disrupt the abnormal electrical pathways in the heart that are causing the arrhythmia.

What is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

Supraventricular tachycardia is a type of abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, that originates in the upper chambers of the heart (atria). It is characterized by a rapid heart rate, typically between 160-280 beats per minute. SVT can be caused by a variety of factors, including abnormal electrical pathways in the heart, stress, caffeine, and certain medications.

How is SVT Ablation Performed?

The SVT ablation procedure is typically performed in an electrophysiology laboratory by a team of healthcare professionals, including a cardiologist and nurses. The procedure involves the following steps:

• The patient is given local anesthesia to numb the area where the catheters will be inserted.
• One or more catheters are inserted through a vein in the leg or arm and guided to the heart using X-ray imaging.
• The catheters are used to map the electrical activity of the heart and identify the source of the abnormal rhythm.
• Once the source of the arrhythmia is identified, the catheter is used to deliver energy (either radiofrequency or cryoenergy) to destroy or disrupt the abnormal electrical pathway.
• The procedure can take several hours to complete, and the patient may be required to stay in the hospital overnight for observation.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with SVT ablation. These include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site
• Infection
• Damage to the heart or surrounding tissues
• Abrupt closure of the coronary artery
• Tamponade (fluid accumulation in the sac around the heart)
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Success Rate and Follow-up Care

The success rate for SVT ablation is generally high, with approximately 90-95% of patients experiencing significant improvement or complete elimination of their symptoms. After the procedure, patients typically require follow-up care to monitor their heart rhythm and adjust any medications as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is SVT ablation?
A minimally invasive procedure to treat supraventricular tachycardia.

How is SVT ablation performed?
Using catheters and energy to destroy abnormal electrical pathways.

What are the benefits of SVT ablation?
High success rate, reduces symptoms, and improves quality of life.

Is SVT ablation painful?
Typically done under local anesthesia and sedation.

How long does the procedure take?
Usually 2-4 hours.

What are the risks of SVT ablation?
Bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding tissues.

Can SVT ablation be repeated if necessary?
Yes, if the arrhythmia returns.

How long is the recovery time after SVT ablation?
Typically a few hours to overnight hospital stay.

Will I be able to drive after the procedure?
Usually not for 24 hours.

When can I return to normal activities after SVT ablation?
Usually within a few days.