Radio Frequency or Cryo ablation

[tridye]

Can anyone explain the difference between the two procedures. My cardiologist has suggested he will discuss the possibility of an RF ablation but I don't know why one would be chosen over the other

[BobD Volunteer]

OK short form explanation.#

RF = radiofrequency= heat.

Cryo= baloon= freezing.

RF uses small catheter tip which is heated and makes spot burns which are arranged around the place to be ablated.

Cryo uses a balloon which has gas pumped in under pressure, As the gas expands it freezes and the cold burns.

Cryo balloon is inserted into the mouth of each pulmonary vein as it is from here that the rogue impulses are usually found to emenate. This method is easier and usually faster but has limitations as it can only deal with average size veins . Many people have conjoined pulmonary veins for which balloon is of no use. Also some signals come from other parts of the atrium for which ony RF is useable.

There is a very complete booklet on our (AF Association ) website on all matters ablation.

[tridye in reply to BobD]

thanks