Intermediate
Technical
IVT
ablation
A medical procedure that destroys abnormal heart tissue causing arrhythmias using heat, cold, or radiofrequency energy.
Full Definition
Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat arrhythmias by destroying small areas of heart tissue that are causing abnormal electrical signals. The procedure can be performed using various energy sources including radiofrequency energy, cryotherapy (freezing), or laser. Catheter ablation is the most common approach, where thin wires are threaded through blood vessels to the heart. This technique is particularly effective for treating atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and certain ventricular tachycardias.
Usage
Usage note: Often preceded by the energy type used (e.g., 'radiofrequency ablation' or 'cryoablation').
In Context
- "The patient underwent successful pulmonary vein ablation for recurrent atrial fibrillation." — Clinical report
- "Radiofrequency ablation showed a 90% success rate in eliminating the arrhythmic focus." — Medical journal article
Also known as
catheter ablation
cardiac ablation
Don't confuse with
isolation
excision