Different Alations

[Junoesque]

What is the difference between a RF Ablation and a AV ablation? I think I will be offered a AV ablation. I have a pacemaker fitted.

[BobD Volunteer]

RF or radio frequency ablation is a method rather than a procedure. An AV node ablation uses RF energy to ablate part or most of the AV node thereby transferring the pacemaker role to you electrical one rather than natures own. Pulmonary vein isolation procedure which is usually just called "an ablation" can use either RF or Cryo energy to create the scars necessary to stop the rogue impulses.

Hope this helps.

Bob

[Junoesque in reply to BobD]

Thank you Bob. Do you know how long the procedure lasts. Sounds a bit dodgey relying solely on the pacemaker for beating of the heart. Has anyone on the forum had it done if so if they have had any problems?