Atrial Flutter Ablation

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia (GA), meaning you will be asleep and not feel any discomfort.
• Catheters will be inserted into the groin (left, right, or both) under local anesthetic and guided to the heart using X-ray imaging and/or magnetic mapping technology.
• Radiofrequency energy is commonly used to create precise scar tissue in the cavotricuspid isthmus, a critical area responsible for atrial flutter.

Risks Involved

While atrial flutter ablation is a well-tolerated and effective procedure, potential risks include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.
• Sore throat due to the breathing tube used during anesthesia.
• Minor bleeding at the groin site, which can typically be controlled by applying firm pressure for 30 minutes.
• Blood clots or stroke (rare, as blood thinners are used to reduce this risk).
• Heart or lung complications (very rare, but possible due to catheter manipulation inside the heart).

What to Expect After the Procedure

• Fatigue for a few days following the procedure.
• If minor bleeding occurs at the catheter site, apply firm pressure for 30 minutes. If it persists, seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Go to the Emergency Room if you experience:

• Severe pain or increasing swelling in the groin where catheters were inserted.
• Chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Uncontrolled bleeding at the catheter site.
• Stroke-like symptoms such as changes in vision, inability to speak, difficulty walking, or loss of function in arms or legs.

Follow-Up Care

You can follow up with your regular doctor and contact our office if you have any questions or if you would like to see one of our doctors for a repeat visit. This procedure is generally curative for atrial flutter, and we do not routinely arrange a follow-up appointment with the arrhythmia specialist unless there are concerns. If you experience recurrence, contact our office to arrange a follow-up appointment and treatment plan.