Preparation Stage

Eating is stopped 8 hours before the procedure, and fluid intake is stopped 4 hours before. Blood thinners (Warfarin 5 days before, NOAC 48 hours before) are discontinued. ECG, echocardiography and blood tests are performed. Pacemaker patients undergo device check.

Anaesthesia Administration

Deep sedation is used for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and general anaesthesia is used for persistent AF. Heparin is given throughout the procedure to prevent blood clotting.

Cardiac Catheterisation and 3D Mapping

Access is gained through the right femoral vein to the left atrium. Detailed 3D mapping of the heart is created. Pulmonary veins are marked and potentials are recorded. Oesophageal temperature is continuously monitored.

Application of Ablation Procedure

Radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation is performed using specialised catheters with 25-35 Watt power. Optimal contact force and duration are targeted for each spot. The procedure takes an average of 2.5 hours.

Recovery and FollowIup Protocol

Patients are monitored in intensive care for 24 hours and are usually discharged within 48 hours. Aspirin therapy is given for the first month. Follow-up is done at 3, 6 and 12 months. Success rate is 85% for paroxysmal AF and 70% for persistent AF. Strenuous activities are avoided for 3 months.