FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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WHAT CAN I EXPECT FOLLOWING ABLATION FOR AF?
Plan to stay overnight. You’ll rest for three hours after the ablation. You can move around afterward but avoid heavy exertion for a week. Ablation aims to prevent atrial fibrillation, yet it may irritate, leading to irregular heartbeat. Depending on risk assessment, we may prescribe an antiarrhythmic drug. Expect mild chest discomfort for 2-3 days, managed with anti-inflammatory meds. Antacid therapy is provided for a month to protect the esophagus. Bruising at the puncture sites is common, usually local, but can extend down to the knee occasionally. Progressive pain or swelling at the sites may indicate continued bleeding. Immediate attention is needed for late-onset chest pain or pain on swallowing to prevent atrial esophageal fistula.
In addition to your question, you may wish to review the ablation procedure so you’ll know what to expect:
Your doctor will begin by making small incisions in your groin area to insert thin, flexible tubes called catheters. These catheters are guided through your blood vessels to your heart using advanced imaging technology. Once in place, the catheters are used to map your heart’s electrical activity and identify the areas causing the irregular rhythm.
Next, your doctor will use one of two main ablation techniques:
- Radiofrequency ablation: This method uses heat energy to create tiny scars on the problematic areas of your heart tissue.
- Cryoablation: This technique uses extreme cold to achieve the same result.
These scars block the abnormal electrical signals causing your AFib, allowing your heart to return to a normal rhythm. The entire procedure typically takes between 3 and 6 hours.
As with any medical procedure, AFib ablation carries some risks. Our Atlanta heart doctors will thoroughly discuss these with you before the procedure. Some potential risks include:
- Bleeding or infection at the catheter insertion sites
- Blood vessel damage
- Heart valve damage
- Stroke or heart attack (rare)
- Phrenic nerve injury, which can cause shortness of breath
- Pulmonary vein stenosis (narrowing of the pulmonary veins)
- Esophageal injury (very rare)
It’s important to note that while these risks exist, they are generally low, and our experienced team takes every precaution to minimize them.
After your ablation procedure, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where our medical team will closely monitor you. Most patients stay in the hospital overnight for observation, but you may be able to go home the same day, depending on your individual case.
In the days following your procedure:
- You may experience some chest discomfort, fatigue, or bruising at the catheter insertion sites. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days to a week.
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about a week.
- You may be prescribed blood thinners to prevent blood clots.
- Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and adjust medications if necessary.
It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure optimal recovery and results.
AFib ablation has proven to be highly effective for many patients. However, it’s important to understand that some individuals may require a second procedure to achieve the best results. Our Atlanta heart doctors will work closely with you to monitor your progress and determine if additional treatments are needed.
Many patients experience significant improvement in their quality of life after ablation, with reduced AFib symptoms and a decreased need for medications. However, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle—including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management—is crucial for long-term success.
Our team of expert cardiologists in Atlanta is committed to providing you with the highest quality care. With state-of-the-art facilities across eleven convenient locations in the metro area, we ensure that top-notch cardiac care is always within your reach. Our doctors utilize the latest techniques and technologies in AFib ablation to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
Remember, AFib ablation is a specialized procedure, and it’s normal to have questions or concerns. Our Atlanta heart doctors are here to guide you through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to post-procedure care. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions—we’re dedicated to ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your treatment plan.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s team of twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, extensive experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ profiles to explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to delivering quality care. Rest assured that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything possible to ensure you achieve the best quality of life.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or (678) 582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, do not contact us online; please call 911.