Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Atrial fibrillation ablation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to correct the irregular heart rhythm caused by AFib. When medications have not provided lasting relief, atrial fibrillation ablation offers a more direct solution. At Richmond Heart and Vascular Associates, our electrophysiology team performs this procedure in an on-site Ambulatory Surgery Center, so care stays focused, coordinated, and close to home.
What Is AFib?
Atrial fibrillation, commonly called AFib, is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm caused by disorganized electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart. Instead of beating in a steady, coordinated pattern, the atria quiver or flutter, which disrupts blood flow through the heart.
AFib is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders. Symptoms vary. Some patients notice a fluttering or pounding in the chest, fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Others have no symptoms at all, even though the arrhythmia still carries risk.
Left untreated, AFib increases the risk of blood clots that can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Managing AFib is about both feeling better and reducing that longer-term risk.
Why You Might Need Ablation
Medications are usually the first treatment for AFib. They can help control the heart rate and, in some cases, restore normal rhythm. But medications do not work for everyone, and some patients experience side effects that affect their quality of life.
Our electrophysiologists will review your full history before recommending any procedure. Ablation is not appropriate for every patient, and you will work with your physician to determine whether it is the right path for you.
Catheter ablation may be appropriate if you:
Have tried one or more antiarrhythmic medications without adequate symptom relief
Experience frequent or persistent AFib episodes that interfere with daily activities
Have paroxysmal (intermittent) AFib that keeps returning despite treatment
Are not a good candidate for long-term anticoagulation or want to reduce stroke risk through rhythm control
Want a more durable, procedure-based option for managing your arrhythmia
Risks and Benefits
Like any cardiac procedure, ablation carries both benefits and risks. Understanding both helps you make an informed decision with your physician.
Potential Benefits
• Reduced frequency or elimination of AFib episodes
• Improved quality of life and exercise tolerance
• Decreased reliance on antiarrhythmic medications
• Lower stroke risk through better rhythm management
• Same-day discharge for most patients
Potential risks
• Bruising or minor bleeding at the catheter insertion site
• Rare risk of damage to surrounding structures, including blood vessels or the esophagus
• Small risk of pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
• Possibility that more than one procedure may be needed to achieve the desired result
• Standard risks associated with sedation or general anesthesia
Your electrophysiologist will discuss your individual risk profile before the procedure. Serious complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced EP team.
What to Expect
Our team will walk you through every step well before your procedure date so you feel confident and prepared. AFib ablation is performed on an outpatient basis for most patients, with same-day discharge once your care team confirms you are stable. We are with you from pre-procedure preparation through follow-up care.
Why Choose Richmond Heart and Vascular Associates
If you are living with AFib symptoms, have been referred for an ablation evaluation or would like a second opinion, our electrophysiology team is ready to see you. Call Richmond Heart and Vascular Associates at 804.800.6600 to request a consultation, or use our online appointment scheduler:
Independent private practice with over 30 years of service to Central Virginia, with consistent physician access and continuity of care built in.
On-site Ambulatory Surgery Center designed specifically for outpatient cardiac procedures and ensuring coordination of your overall care.
Board-certified electrophysiologists with focused expertise in catheter-based arrhythmia procedures
Three convenient locations in Chesterfield, Mechanicsville and Hopewell so follow-up and ongoing care remain accessible.