Trans-catheter Ablation for A-fib
Contact Us: 203-576-5202
The Regional Heart and Vascular Center located at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, CT, offers the complete range of treatments for atrial fibrillation (rapid or irregular heartbeat) including the non-surgical “trans-catheter ablation” minimally invasive surgery technique and a cutting edge procedure which combines the two called Hybrid Ablation.
The Non-Surgical Approach
“Trans-catheter-ablation” is another option for A-fib sufferers. In this procedure, performed in the electrophysiology lab, a specialized cardiologist called an electrophysiologist use radio frequency energy around the pulmonary veins to block the electrical impulses, but reaches the heart only through a small catheter inserted from the femoral vein in the groin, requiring no cutting or incisions.
With the use of ultrasound, fluoroscopy (live x-ray) and a 3-D map of the heart, cardiologists can not only treat atrial fibrillation, but can also find the triggers of other arrhythmias, approaching the heart through the small veins from the groin only.
Electrophysiologist Joseph Tiano, MD, FACC, is an expert in the trans-catheter ablation procedure. In addition, for certain cases, Dr. Tiano uses hybrid ablation, a combination of trans-catheter ablation and minimally invasive surgery when appropriate.
Recovery
Recovery involves only an overnight stay in the hospital for monitoring purposes, and a return to work in three days for patients with sedentary jobs, and one week for those with physical occupations. Trans-catheter ablation may sometimes require a repeat procedure.
Candidates for Trans-Catheter Ablation
Candidates for trans-catheter ablation typically have paroxysmal A-fib, (defined as an irregular heartbeat that comes and goes, does not last longer than 48 hours and self-terminates without medical attention). Patients must feel their heart racing (palpitations), and must have failed on at least one anti-arrhythmia medication.
For certain cases, hybrid ablation, a combination of trans-catheter ablation and minimally invasive surgery, may be appropriate. Speak with your physician to see if you're a candidate for this procedure.
Contact us
A-Fib and hybrid ablation line: 203-576-5202
To find a St. Vincent’s physician who can discuss your health concerns or those of a loved one, please click on our FIND A DOCTOR tool and search by specialty, practice, location or keyword. We’re here to help you locate the medical expert you need.
To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847
To speak with somone at the front desk of the Medical Center, please call (203) 576-6000
Click in for St. Vincent's Medical Center DIRECTIONS | MAPS | PARKING information