Atrial Fibrillation Patient Info: PVI Ablation for AFib
Atrial Fibrillation Patient Info: PVI Ablation for AFib
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a type of arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat that usually begins in one or more of the pulmonary veins. Pulmonary veins are responsible for carrying oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart. When the heart’s electrical rhythm is disrupted due to AFib, the heart beats very quickly and chaotically and prevents blood from being pumped efficiently.
Signs & Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
AFib can lead to stroke, heart failure, chronic fatigue, weakness, breathlessness, fainting, and a significant reduction in quality of life, among other symptoms.
Infographic: Heartlight X3: An Effective Treatment for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Fibrillation Treatment Options
How to Treat Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
Fortunately, there are many successful electrophysiology methods cardiologists use to treat AFib and restore normal heart rhythm and/or control heart rate. The approach taken depends on factors such as the type and severity of the arrhythmia, prior treatments, and other medical conditions. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, antiarrhythmic drug therapy, catheter laser ablation procedures, and heart surgery.
PVI Catheter Ablation Procedure: How It Works
When lifestyle changes and medication are not effective enough to address AFib, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a common next step. During this minimally-invasive surgical procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and advanced into the atria of the heart. The energy delivered from this catheter is used to create scar tissue. The scar tissue serves to block the electrical signals causing AFib and thereby electrically isolate the pulmonary veins from the atrium. This allows the heart to beat with a normal rhythm once again.
New Healthcare Advancements in PVI Ablation
The HeartLight X3 Endoscopic Laser Ablation System has been designed for physicians to perform PVI procedures with accuracy, precision, and confidence. The system’s innovative HeartLight X3 ablation catheter is equipped with an endoscope to provide a real-time view of the inside of your heart. Utilizing an ultra-compliant balloon, the endoscopic ablation catheter is able to conform to your heart’s specific anatomy. Finally, using laser energy, the system also enables your physician to customize the amount of laser energy used during the procedure based on your heart’s specific needs. These three unique features allow your physician to create accurate and precise lines of scar tissue to electrically isolate your pulmonary veins.
What to Expect with PVI Laser Ablation Treatment for AFib
A procedure with the HeartLight X3 ablation catheter typically takes about one hour to complete. Patients typically have a quick recovery process, with most able to go home on the same or the next day of the procedure. Most patients can have their AFib addressed with a single procedure, however, there can be situations where additional follow-up treatment may be recommended.
Advancing PVI Laser Ablation Technology for Atrial Fibrillation Treatment
The HeartLight Endoscopic Ablation System is the only commercially available system for PVI that combines three unique features:
- Direct visualization inside of the heart
- Titratable laser energy
- Compliant balloon designed to adapt to your heart’s specific anatomy.
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This is a generalized description of atrial fibrillation and treatment options. Please be sure to consult your physician about your specific situation and needs.
1. Benjamin EJ, et al. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2018 Update. Circulation. 2018;137:e67-e492.
Afib Patient Testimonials
HeartLight Patient and Physician Testimonial
Watch as Atrial Fibrillation patient Felicia Hunter and her electrophysiologist David Kenigsberg, MD describe her life-changing experience with the HeartLight Endoscopic Ablation System procedure.