Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac ablation: Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is thought to start in the large veins that bring blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart (called the pulmonary veins).

Once the catheters are in the left atrium, they destroy some of the tissue where the pulmonary veins enter the left atrium. This prevents the abnormal heart beats that start deep in these veins from reaching the left atrium and causing the atrial fibrillation.

Cardiac ablation works to treat atrial fibrillation in about 70 to 80% of cases (about 7 to 8 out of 10 people) the first time it’s done. If it doesn’t work the first time, your doctor may want you to have the procedure again as it often works better the second time.

Current as of: September 20, 2019

Author: Cardiovascular Health and Stroke Strategic Clinical Network, AHS

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac ablation: Atrial fibrillation