CARDIAC ABLATION TREATMENTS NUFFIELD HEALTH CAMBRIDGE
Ablation treatments are available at the Cambridge Nuffield Hospital, specifically for cardiac patients. Ablation therapy involves the destruction of abnormal heart tissue to help prevent recurrence of certain cardiac rhythm abnormalities. In the case of Cardiac Ablation, we are able to carry out both ablation of Supraventricular Tachycardia and Typical Atrial Flutter. Below is a closer look at the procedure.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING ABLATION THERAPY?
Ablation or catheter ablation can be used to treat supraventricular tachycardia and recurrent episodes of atrial flutter. It is highly successful and usually only requires local anaesthetic and sedation. Patients can be treated and discharged the same day.
The process works through electrophysiology catheters being inserted into a vein at the top of the leg (typically the right side). They are passed through the blood vessels and advanced towards the heart. The catheters are able to effectively record electrical activity from the inside of the heart and can be positioned using x-rays for guidance. Once in position they can be used to ablate certain areas of the heart. This can be through electrical energy in the form of radio frequency ablation or through freezing known as cryoablation. The tissue that is ablated is scarred to a stage it should not be able to recover or conduct electricity.
Once the procedure is complete a small dressing is applied to the area where the catheters entered the body and rest time will be required. On returning to the ward most patients can eat and drink immediately. Most patients go home the same day but physical and strenuous activities should be avoided for around seven days.
IMPLANTATION OF LOOP RECORDERS AND PACEMAKERS
We are also able to offer loop recorder and pacemaker implantation at the Cambridge Nuffield Hospital, both of which can have extremely positive effects for patients with heart conditions.
Implanted Loop Recorder
A loop recorder is a heart monitoring device. It records the heart’s rhythm on a continuous basis for as long as three years. It is implanted under the skin of the chest and allows for accurate remote heart monitoring. The constant monitoring can capture infrequent but potentially dangerous abnormalities, allowing them to be treated.
Implanted Pacemaker
A pacemaker is a small two-part device, incorporating a generator positioned under the skin of the chest, and wires inserted into the heart which are used to regulate and control the heartbeat. Pacemakers are commonly fitted to patients who have problems with slow heart rates. The implant procedure is possible through minor surgery but does require some lifestyle changes afterwards, to ensure the pacemaker can continue to work effectively.
QUESTIONS ABOUT CARDIAC ABLATION TREATMENTS
Dr David Begley is a specialist consultant cardiologist, who can help to determine the best treatment and way forward for you and your condition. If you would like more advice about Cardiac Ablation Treatments, then please get in touch to arrange an appointment. To make an appointment please contact Dr David Begley’s Private Secretary, Ruth Littlechild on 01480 364 112 or please use the contact form.
If you have experienced symptoms you might think are related to heart rhythm disturbance or have been diagnosed with an arrhythmia please discuss with your general practitioner whether referral is appropriate.