Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation

Ventricular tachycardia is a fast heart rhythm that occurs due to erratic electrical signals in the lower heart chamber or ventricle. VT ablation seeks to restore a regular heart rhythm.

Why?
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ectopic beats that arise from the lower chamber of the heart can cause palpitations, dizziness, blackouts and shortness of breath. Most people may see improvements in their quality of life after Ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation.

In some cases improvements in heart function may be seen.

Preparation

Ventricular tachycardia ablation is done in hospital. You'll likely receive a sedative medication to help you relax and in most cases you will receive anesthesia during the procedure. Your groin will be shaved and local anesthetic may be used to numb the groin area.

How is it done?

The cardiologist inserts a long flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel, usually in the groin area. The catheter is gently guided to the heart.

Sensors on the tip of the catheter send electrical impulses and record the heart's electricity. The Cardiologist uses this information to determine the best place to apply the VT ablation treatment.

The Cardiologist will choose one of the following ablation techniques to create small scars in the heart and block irregular heart rhythms.

  • Heat (radiofrequency energy)
  • Extreme cold (cryoablation)

VT ablation may be done from inside or outside the heart. Sometimes, treatment is done at both locations.

  • If the Ventricular tachycardia is coming from inside the heart, The cardiologist will guide the catheter to this area. Heat or cold energy is applied to the target area causing small scarring. This helps block the electrical signals that cause the ventricular tachycardia.
  • If the Ventricular tachycardia starts outside the heart, The Cardiologist will insert a needle through the skin on the chest and into the lining of the fluid-filled sack (pericardium) that surrounds the heart. A hollow tube (sheath) is inserted and catheters are passed through the tube to access the outside surface of the heart. Radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation can be used during epicardial ablation.

Duration

VT ablation takes about three to six hours. You will be taken to a recovery area where your condition will be closely monitored. You'll likely stay overnight in the hospital.

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