Ask a doctor on the topic of Internal medicine

Cardiac catheter ablation YES or NO?

February 14, 2014 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Performing heart catheter ablation, YES or NO?? Summary of my examination at the German Heart Center Munich: "Echocardiographically, normal systolic left and right ventricular function was observed with a morphologically and functionally inconspicuous valve status. The ergometry test showed a regular increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Furthermore, no increase in extrasystole and no significant ischemic changes were observed. 12-channel Holter ECG: Over a monitoring period of 24 hours, a highly pronounced ventricular extrasystole was observed, most likely originating from the lateral right ventricular outflow tract. We recommend performing a heart catheter ablation to alleviate the symptoms." I need more opinions on whether I should proceed with a catheter ablation or wait a bit longer, as I also have good phases where I have no complaints and feel very well. My symptoms include heart palpitations, tachycardia, and chest pain.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good day,

Unfortunately, you did not write down your age. Unfortunately, you also did not mention if there have been any attempts at medication therapy.

Such an ectopic atrial rhythm is not an indication for catheter ablation at all, so I do not understand why it is being recommended. You can find guidelines for ablation here:

http://herzrhythmusstoerungen-online.de/uploads/media/2007-11_Katheterablation.pdf

Ablation is associated with certain risks, such as vascular injuries, infections, or dangerous blood clots. This is another reason why I advise against it at this time.

I wish you all the best!

Warm regards, Dr. Höllering, Specialist in Internal and General Medicine