Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heart rhythm that begins in the heart’s upper chambers (atria). It can cause a fast heartbeat, fatigue, dizziness and trouble breathing. Treatment may include medicines or procedures such as catheter ablation or surgical ablation. These treatments help control the heart rhythm and manage symptoms.
At the CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, our doctors assess your heart health and recommend treatment based on your condition. If you have atrial fibrillation, early diagnosis and appropriate care can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Atrial fibrillation is a type of heart rhythm disorder. It occurs when abnormal electrical signals cause the upper chambers of your heart to beat irregularly. This can affect how blood moves through your heart and may cause a fast or uneven heartbeat.
Common symptoms of atrial fibrillation include:
Some people may not notice any symptoms. Atrial fibrillation can develop due to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, thyroid disorders or other health conditions.
Is atrial fibrillation dangerous? It can be. Atrial fibrillation may increase your risk of blood clots, stroke and heart failure. A medical assessment can help identify your risks and guide treatment.
Atrial fibrillation treatment depends on your symptoms, heart health and risk of complications. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following options.
Your doctor will explain the available options and help you understand which treatment may suit your condition.
Atrial fibrillation surgery aims to block abnormal electrical signals and help the heart maintain a more regular rhythm. The procedure depends on your condition and the type of treatment recommended.
Before the procedure: Your doctor reviews your medical history, symptoms and current medicines. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, blood tests and other heart investigations. You will also receive instructions about eating, drinking and taking medicines before the procedure.
During the procedure: One surgical option is the Maze procedure. The surgeon creates a pattern of scar tissue in the heart using heat, cold or surgical instruments. This pattern blocks abnormal electrical signals that cause atrial fibrillation.
Catheter ablation is another option. It does not usually require open-heart surgery. Instead, the doctor guides catheters through blood vessels to reach the heart and treat the areas responsible for abnormal signals.
After the procedure: Your medical team monitors your heart rhythm, blood pressure and overall condition. The length of your hospital stay depends on the procedure and your recovery.
Atrial fibrillation surgery may help reduce irregular heartbeats and improve symptoms. It may also improve your ability to carry out daily activities. However, results vary, and the condition may return after treatment.
Possible risks include:
The risks depend on your health and the procedure performed. Your doctor will discuss the expected benefits and possible complications before treatment.
Recovery depends on the type of procedure and your overall health. After catheter ablation, many people return to their usual activities within a few days. Recovery after surgical ablation may take longer.
Your doctor may recommend that you:
Some people continue to experience irregular heartbeats during the early recovery period. Your doctor will assess these symptoms and decide whether further treatment is needed. Do not stop blood thinners without medical advice, as your risk of stroke may remain even after ablation.
Atrial fibrillation requires careful assessment and treatment planning. At the CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, our doctors can evaluate your heart condition and help you understand the available treatment options.
Consult our team to understand which atrial fibrillation treatment may be suitable for you.
Surgery may be considered when medicines or other treatments do not control symptoms, or when a patient needs heart surgery for another condition. Catheter ablation may be recommended for selected patients. The decision depends on your symptoms and overall heart health.
Ablation can help control atrial fibrillation for long periods, but it does not guarantee a permanent cure. Some people may need another procedure or continued medicines if the irregular rhythm returns.
Atrial fibrillation procedures are commonly used, but they carry risks. These may include bleeding, infection, blood clots and heart-related complications. Your doctor will assess your health and explain the risks before treatment.
The Maze procedure is a type of surgical ablation. The surgeon creates a pattern of scar tissue in the heart to block abnormal electrical signals. It may be performed during open-heart surgery or through other surgical approaches in selected cases.
Catheter ablation uses thin tubes inserted through blood vessels to reach the heart. Surgical ablation involves creating scar tissue through a surgical approach. The choice depends on your condition and whether you need another heart procedure.
Some people need blood thinners after treatment to reduce their risk of stroke. The decision depends on your stroke risk and other medical factors, not only whether your heart rhythm returns to normal. Follow your doctor's advice before making any changes to your medicines.
Tests may include an ECG, echocardiogram, blood tests and heart rhythm monitoring. Your doctor may recommend additional imaging or other investigations based on your condition and the planned procedure.
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