Medical Electrophysiology Radio frequency Ablation Question

AI Thread Summary
Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure aimed at treating atrial fibrillation by using radiofrequency energy to destroy heart tissue that generates abnormal electrical signals. This damage helps restore normal heart rhythm by eliminating ectopic foci that disrupt the conduction pathway. While effective for many patients, the procedure carries risks and is typically recommended only when other treatments, like medications or cardioversion, have failed.In comparing radiofrequency ablation to cryoablation, which utilizes cold to achieve similar results, both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Radiofrequency ablation generally uses heat, while cryoablation is considered a newer technique. Each method's effectiveness and safety profile can vary based on individual patient circumstances and the specifics of their atrial fibrillation.
JeffMandell
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I am interested in the medical field of electrophysiology and I have a few questions regarding the procedures done on patients with atrial fibrillation.

What is the purpose of radio frequency ablation on the tissue of the heart? How does damaging the tissue relieve atrial fibrillation?

What are the pros and cons of radio frequency ablation versus cryoablation?
 
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JeffMandell said:
I am interested in the medical field of electrophysiology and I have a few questions regarding the procedures done on patients with atrial fibrillation.

What is the purpose of radio frequency ablation on the tissue of the heart? How does damaging the tissue relieve atrial fibrillation?

What are the pros and cons of radio frequency ablation versus cryoablation?

Source http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/ss/slideshow-af-overview

"Treatment: Ablation
If cardioversion and medications fail to control the symptoms of atrial fibrillation, radiofrequency ablation is an option. This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to destroy the heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals. Although it does not require open heart surgery, ablation has some risks. It is only recommended for people who have serious symptoms despite trying other treatments."
 
JeffMandell said:
I am interested in the medical field of electrophysiology and I have a few questions regarding the procedures done on patients with atrial fibrillation.

What is the purpose of radio frequency ablation on the tissue of the heart? How does damaging the tissue relieve atrial fibrillation?

What are the pros and cons of radio frequency ablation versus cryoablation?

Afib is due to ectopic foci that's firing signals that interferes with the normal conduction pathway. The ablation gets rid of that. Not always works though.

Bye the way radiofrequency uses heat, the newer generation probes uses cold/freezing.
 

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