Cardiac Catheter Cryoablation(Cryotherapy; Cryoablation)
by
Elizabeth A. Peterson, MFA DefinitionCryoablation uses extremely cold temperature to destroy cells. Cardiac catheter cryoablation is used to destroy selected heart cells. Reasons for Procedure TOPThis procedure is done to disable heart cells that are creating irregular heartbeats called arrhythmias. After the procedure, normal heart rhythm should be restored. Possible Complications TOPProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review possible problems such as:
Your chances of problems are higher for: What to Expect TOPPrior to ProcedureYou may have an electrophysiology study to pinpoint where the arrhythmia is. Leading up to your procedure:
AnesthesiaLocal anesthesia is used. It will numb the area where the catheter is placed. You may get a mild sedative to relax you. Description of Procedure TOPAn ablation catheter will be inserted into a blood vessel. The groin, upper thigh area, arm, or wrist can be used. The catheter is passed through a blood vessel to the heart. X-rays will help guide the catheter to the right place.
Your doctor will locate the origin of your arrhythmia. This will be done by setting off the arrhythmia with the catheter tip. When found, the area is cooled with the tip. The cold will temporarily stop the arrhythmia. If it’s not the right area, the tip is removed. The tissue will not be damaged. The tubes will be removed and the area will be bandaged. Immediately After Procedure TOPYou will be moved to a recovery room. If the groin was used, you will likely need to lie still and flat on your back for a period of time. A pressure dressing will help control bleeding. How Long Will It Take? TOP3-6 hours, but it could be longer How Much Will It Hurt? TOPYou may feel some minor discomfort as the catheter is inserted. You may feel lightheaded, experience a rapid heartbeat, or experience chest pain during the freezing process. Average Hospital Stay TOPMost people stay overnight for further observation. If you have problems, you may need to stay longer. Post-procedure Care TOPAt the HospitalThe healthcare staff will watch your vital signs. They will also care for the insertion site to make sure there aren’t any problems. At HomeTo help you heal faster:
Call Your Doctor TOPCall your doctor if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org Heart Rhythm Society https://www.hrsonline.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Cardiovascular Society http://www.ccs.ca Heart and Stroke Foundation http://www.heartandstroke.ca References:Ablation for arrhythmias. American Heart Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated June 5, 2017. Accessed July 9, 2018. Catheter ablation. Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/cardiovascular/catheter_ablation_135,45. Accessed July 9, 2018. Catheter ablation. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/catheter-ablation. Accessed July 9, 2018. Miller JM, Zipes DP. Cardiology patient page. Catheter ablation of arrhythmias.
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Last reviewed May 2018 by
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Michael J. Fucci, DO, FACC Last Updated: 7/9/2018 | |
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