Catheter-Based Pulmonary Vein Isolation/Ablation

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), also called pulmonary vein ablation PVA, blocks the irregular impulses causing atrial fibrillation. During PVI, catheters are inserted into the blood vessels of the atrium. The catheters are directed to precise locations in the heart and “map” or search for the electrical impulses that fire abnormally. Energy is delivered through the catheters to the area of the atria that connects to the pulmonary veins, where the abnormal impulses originate. This energy produces a circular scar (ablation) that blocks any impulses firing from within the pulmonary vein. The pathway of the abnormal rhythm is “disconnected” and atrial fibrillation is corrected. For more information, click here Catheter-Based Pulmonary Vein Isolation. 
 

Minimally Invasive Surgical Ablation Approach

Patients with paroxysmal (intermittent) atrial fibrillation are candidates for minimally invasive surgical ablation. Approaches include keyhole surgery or a completely endoscopic approach. In both techniques, the procedure includes isolation of the pulmonary veins and excision (removal) of the left atrial appendage, a potential source of blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation. Lines of conduction/blocking scar tissue are created on the heart using either radiofrequency or microwave energy. The conduction block interrupts the abnormal circuits that cause atrial fibrillation, enabling restoration of normal sinus rhythm. These minimally invasive approaches feature shorter procedure times, smaller incisions and a more rapid recovery. For more information, click here Minimally Invasive Surgical Ablation Approach.