Explanation of AF | Abnormal electrical activity | 52 (46) |
Indications for AF ablation and procedure overview | Aim: symptom control, not (in general) improvement of survival | 6 (5) |
What is catheter ablation? isolation of abnormal electrical activity | 60 (54) |
Pre-operative | Anticoagulation: Peri-procedural, follow physician guidelines | 17 (15) |
Operative | Mentions one of: (Local anaesthetic+sedation) or (general anaesthetic) | 39 (35) |
Catheter insertion at the groin | 58 (52) |
Mentions Method burns or freezes the tissue | 61 (55) |
Post-operative | Length of hospital stay or recovery/discharge usually following day | 41 (37) |
Driving restrictions apply | 5 (5) |
Do not stop medications without talking to doctor first | 0 (0) |
Anticoagulation review is required post-procedure | 8 (7) |
Expected post-procedural symptoms detailed | 24 (22) |
Safeguarding: contact team if significant symptoms – shortness of breath, chest pain, light-headedness | 4 (4) |
Risks (with%) | Severe bleeding | 17 (15) |
Damage to surrounding structures (incl. pulmonary veins, pneumothorax, oesophagus, [phrenic] nerve, conducting system) | 19 (17) |
Pericardial effusion | 7 (6) |
Stroke | 14 (13) |
Death | 12 (11) |
Failure/Need for additional procedure | 26 (23) |
Prognosis and success rates | Give% success rate in line with national or international guidance, specific to AF catheter ablation | 32 (29) |
Alternative treatment options | Medication | 57 (51) |