AFib Specialists: Cardiac Electrophysiologists (EPs)

AFib Specialists: Cardiac Electrophysiologists (EPs)

What kind of doctor performs cardiac catheter ablation?​​​​​

A cardiac electrophysiologist is a specialized cardiologist that completes an additional 2 years of training beyond that required for board certification in cardiology.3 They are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in the specialty of cardiovascular disease.

An electrophysiologist has the specialized education and experience needed to do advanced cardiac-related procedures to treat conditions such as atrial fibrillation.

Cardiac Catheter Ablation Success Factors

Cardiac Catheter Ablation Success Factors

What are the success rates for cardiac catheter ablation?

The VISTAX trial showed that 78% of patients had freedom from AFib at 12-months following a cardiac catheter ablation procedure.4

There are many different factors that may predict the success of a catheter ablation procedure, including disease progression, sleep apnea, obesity, increased left atrial appendage size, age, and hypertension.5 Talk to your doctor about these factors prior to your procedure.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions: Cardiac Catheter Ablation

Hospital Icon

Is cardiac catheter ablation a major surgery? How long is the procedure?

Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure. Depending on your condition, you may be able to go home the same day as your procedure.1

The procedure is done in an electrophysiology lab or hospital and can take between two to four hours to complete.6

Some people may feel a little sore after the procedure, which shouldn’t last more than a week.7 Most people can return to their daily activities within a few days after having cardiac ablation.

Surgery Icon

How long is the recovery for the cardiac catheter ablation procedure?

Cardiac catheter ablation usually doesn’t require a prolonged hospital stay.1

Depending on your condition, you may be able to go home the same day as your procedure. Most people can return to their daily activities within a few days after having cardiac ablation.

In the days after the procedure, you may experience minor symptoms such as mild aches in the chest or bruising in the area where the catheter was inserted.6

Patient Icon

Is the cardiac catheter ablation procedure painful?

Cardiac catheter ablation is generally associated with very mild or no discomfort.1

The site where the catheter is inserted into your vein may be sore and potentially have a bruise. This area is very small and should heal quickly.

Access Icon

Where is the catheter inserted for cardiac catheter ablation?

In most cases, your provider inserts the catheter into a large vein or artery in the area between the abdomen and the thigh.1 The catheter is navigated through the blood vessels and into your heart.

Your doctor will decide on the best location based on your anatomy and condition.

AFib Facebook Community Icon

Embrace Support, Embrace Hope.

Join our Facebook community to connect with individuals who understand your journey with AFib. Share triumphs and challenges, discover compassion, and find the support you need to navigate AFib with confidence.

AFib Newsletter Subscribe Icon

Empower Yourself. Make Informed Decisions.

Stay ahead of the curve by staying updated on the latest in AFib and electrophysiology. Subscribe today to equip yourself with the knowledge and resources that will empower you to make informed decisions about your health.

Find a Cardiac Electrophysiologist (AFib Specialist) Near Me Icon

Don't wait to get the support you deserve.

Don’t settle. Find an AFib specialist in your area who understands your unique needs and can provide the specialized care you deserve.