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Rythmopole

Radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation has become the reference treatment for many heart rhythm disorders. This minimally invasive technique makes it possible to permanently treat certain arrhythmias without the need for open-heart surgery. At the Rythmopôle Center, our specialists use this innovative approach to offer you the best chances of recovery.

Radiofrequency ablation is a technique that uses thermal energy to modify the abnormal electrical circuits in the heart that cause arrhythmias.

Contrary to what its name might suggest, ablation does not involve removing a part of the heart, but rather creating very precise small lesions to interrupt the electrical circuits responsible for rhythm disorders.

This technique acts as a true “electrical corrector” by:

  • Precisely identifying the source of the arrhythmia
  • Targeting only the areas responsible for the disorder
  • Creating controlled lesions to block abnormal electrical signals
  • Preserving the surrounding healthy heart tissue

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure carried out in several steps:

Preparation:

  • The procedure is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory
  • Depending on the type of arrhythmia, it may be done under local anesthesia (with sedation) or general anesthesia
  • Sensors are placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm

Access to the heart:

  • The doctor makes a puncture in the femoral vein (groin area)
  • Catheters (thin flexible tubes) are guided to your heart through the blood vessels
  • This step is painless and does not require surgical incision

Mapping and identification:

  • The electrophysiologist performs an electrophysiological study to precisely locate the origin of the arrhythmia
  • Advanced 3D mapping systems allow visualization of the heart’s electrical activity
  • The doctor may sometimes induce the arrhythmia in a controlled way to study it more closely

Ablation:

  • Once the responsible area is identified, the doctor positions the ablation catheter
  • Radiofrequency energy is delivered with great precision
  • This energy heats the tip of the catheter to about 50–60°C, creating a small controlled lesion
  • Several applications may be required depending on the type of arrhythmia

Verification:

  • The doctor checks the immediate effectiveness of the ablation
  • Tests are performed to ensure that the arrhythmia can no longer be induced
  • The catheters are removed and a compression dressing is applied at the puncture site

Radiofrequency ablation is generally well tolerated:

  • You will spend a few hours in the recovery room
  • Depending on the type of procedure, you may go home the same day (outpatient hospitalization) or the next day
  • A feeling of fatigue or mild chest discomfort is possible for a few days
  • Resuming normal activities is generally possible within a few days
  • Follow-up will be arranged to assess the long-term results

Radiofrequency ablation shows excellent results:

Effectiveness:

  • High success rates, ranging from 70% to 95% depending on the type of arrhythmia
  • Definitive resolution for many patients
  • Significant reduction in antiarrhythmic medications, or even complete discontinuation
  • Improved quality of life and disappearance of symptoms

Effectiveness can be influenced by several factors:

  • The type of arrhythmia (some are easier to treat than others)
  • The duration of the rhythm disorder
  • The presence of associated heart disease (chamber dilation, aftereffects of heart attack)

Risks:

  • Radiofrequency ablation is a safe procedure when performed by experienced specialists
  • The most common complications are minor: hematoma at the puncture site, temporary chest discomfort
  • Serious complications are very rare in specialized centers such as the Rythmopôle Center

At the Rythmopôle Center, our patients benefit from:

  • A team of experienced electrophysiologists specialized in all ablation techniques
  • State-of-the-art equipment for optimal precision
  • Advanced imaging techniques (3D mapping, intracardiac echocardiography)
  • Personalized care before, during, and after the procedure
  • Tailored follow-up to ensure lasting results

Radiofrequency ablation represents a major advancement in the treatment of heart rhythm disorders. This minimally invasive technique offers an effective and lasting solution for many patients, often without the need for long-term medication.

Questions fréquentes

Procédure d’ablation par radiofréquence guidée par cartographie 3D pour isoler les veines pulmonaires en cas de fibrillation atriale récidivante

Curative treatment for heart rhythm disorders

Radiofrequency ablation is an interventional technique that can permanently treat many heart rhythm disorders. This minimally invasive procedure precisely targets and neutralizes the arrhythmogenic foci responsible for your symptoms. Performed under local anesthesia at the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, it often allows for complete and lasting recovery, particularly for supraventricular tachycardias and certain forms of atrial fibrillation. The electrophysiologists at Rythmopôle have the expertise required to perform these complex procedures with a high level of safety. Schedule an appointment to determine whether this therapeutic option is suitable for your situation

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