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Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Explanation of procedure
The aim of the procedure is to prevent the abnormal electrical signals that cause atrial
fibrillation from reaching the heart. It is performed using thin tubes inserted into the blood
vessel/(s) at the top of your leg through which fine wires are passed up into your heart with
the help of X-rays. A special wire is then passed through the thin muscle wall between the
two top chambers of the heart (atrial septum) and used to deliver energy around the
opening of each of the veins which carry blood back to the heart from the lungs
(pulmonary veins). So This effectively electrically “disconnectings” them from the heart.
Sometimes other areas involved in setting off or keeping atrial fibrillation going are also
targeted.
The intended benefits of this procedure
To identify and treat your abnormal heart rhythm
Serious or frequently occurring risks:
1-2 in 100 risk of serious or life threatening complications such as:
 blood clots which could cause a stroke or heart attack,
 an accidental connection made between the gullet and the heart,
 puncture of the blood vessels or heart wall which could lead to a collection of blood
in the sac surrounding the heart and which could lead to an emergency operation to
repair,
 damage to one of the nerves which controls the movement of the large muscle
supporting breathing (diaphragm) muscle or
 narrowing of the veins which carry blood back to the heart from the lungs which
may not be reversible.
Less than 1 in 100 risk of needing a permanent pacemaker due to unintentional damage to
the normal conduction system in your heart.
1-5 in 100 risk of bruising or swelling (false aneurysm) where the wires have been
removed from the vein after the procedure.
40-50 in 100 risk of having to undergo a redo procedure if rhythm recurs after 12 weeks.
Any extra Additional procedures which may become necessary during or after the
procedure:
DC Cardioversion An electrical shock across the chest wall to restore a normal heart
beat.
Transeptal puncture. Passing a wire through the thin muscle wall between the top two
chambers of the heart to reach the left side of the heart.
Pericardiocentesis. Removal of blood from the sac surrounding the heart if a puncture of
the blood vessels or heart occurs.
I have discussed what the procedure is likely to involve, the benefits and risks of any
available alternative treatments (including no treatment) and any particular concerns of this
patient.
□ Atrial Fibrillation ablation patient information leaflet has been given to you.
The procedure will involve:
□ General anaesthesia
V3 Oct 2010
□ Local anaesthesia
□ Sedation.