What is Pulmonary Vein Isolation?
Atrial fibrillation is an abnormal heart rhythm originating in the atria (top chambers of the heart). Instead of the impulse traveling in an orderly fashion through the heart, many impulses begin and spread through the atria, causing a rapid and disorganized heartbeat. Ablation of the four pulmonary veins, using a circumferential mapping technique is proving to be successful for many patients with atrial fibrillation. What is Pulmonary Vein Isolation used for? • Treatment of chronic or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation • Patients who have failed antiarrhythmic drugs • Patients who have had complications from antiarrhythmic drugs Who is a Candidate for pulmonary vein ablation? • A thorough evaluation will be conducted to see if this procedure is appropriate for you. • Pre-testing includes a history and physical, electrocardiogram (ECG) and holter monitor . • A transesophogeal echocardiogram (TEE) is conducted within 24 hours of the procedure to rule out blood clots in the atrium and look f
