Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) Ablation Procedure

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) Ablation is a procedure aimed at treating abnormal, rapid heart rhythms that originate in the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. VT is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to cardiac arrest if left untreated or uncontrolled. 

The VT ablation procedure at Emirates Hospitals is performed by our expert US Board-Certified Electrophysiologist in Dubai Dr Khaled Sabeh. 

The VT Ablation Procedure

During the VT ablation procedure, the patient is usually under general anesthesia for their safety and comfort. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, typically in the groin or arm, and guided to the heart using fluoroscopy (X-ray) and electrocardiogram (ECG) mapping.

Once the catheter reaches the heart, an electrophysiologist, a specialized cardiologist, begins the mapping phase. This involves identifying the specific location and mechanism of the abnormal electrical signals responsible for the ventricular tachycardia. Advanced 3D mapping systems may be used to create a detailed map of the heart’s electrical activity, helping the medical team to precisely target the abnormal areas.

Once the abnormal areas causing the ventricular tachycardia have been identified, the next step is the ablation itself. The electrophysiologist uses radiofrequency energy or cryoablation (extreme cold) to create small scars or lesions in the affected heart tissue. These scars interrupt the abnormal electrical pathways and prevent the rapid and dangerous heart rhythms from occurring.

During the procedure, the electrophysiologist carefully monitors the heart’s electrical activity and may perform additional ablations if necessary. Once all targeted areas have been treated, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.

Types of VT Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to create the scars, while cryoablation uses extreme cold. The choice of ablation method depends on various factors, including the location and characteristics of the ventricular tachycardia.

Recovery from VT Ablation Procedure

Following VT ablation, patients are typically monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room. The recovery period may involve monitoring the heart rhythm and providing necessary medications to manage any post-procedure discomfort.

While VT ablation is generally a safe and effective treatment for ventricular tachycardia, there are potential risks and complications or even recurrence, however all potential risks will be discussed with you before the procedure.