Cardiac ablation

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Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac ablation (/kɑːrˈdiːæk æˈbleɪʃən/) is a medical procedure that is used to treat heart rhythm problems.

Etymology

The term "cardiac" is derived from the Greek word "kardia," which means heart. "Ablation" comes from the Latin word "ablatio," meaning removal.

Procedure

Cardiac ablation works by scarring or destroying tissue in your heart that triggers an abnormal heart rhythm. In some cases, cardiac ablation prevents abnormal electrical signals from entering your heart and, thus, stops the arrhythmia.

Types of Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac ablation can be classified into two main types: Radiofrequency ablation and Cryoablation. Radiofrequency ablation uses heat to eliminate the problem area, while cryoablation uses extreme cold to achieve the same result.

Related Terms

  • Arrhythmia: A condition in which the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm.
  • Catheter: A thin tube made from medical grade materials serving a broad range of functions.
  • Electrophysiology Study: Tests that help doctors understand the nature of abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Pacemaker: A small device that's placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms.

Risks

Like any other medical procedure, cardiac ablation also has some risks. These include bleeding, infection, and damage to the heart or the blood vessels used for catheter insertion.

See Also

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