Catheter ablation for heart rhythm problems in India
Heat or cold energy is delivered through a catheter to block the small areas that trigger abnormal rhythms such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia.
At a glance
- Type
- Catheter-based procedure
- Typical procedure time
- About 2–5 hours
- Typical hospital stay
- 1–2 days
- Time to plan in India
- About 1–2 weeks
These are broad, typical ranges for planning a trip. Your doctor sets the real plan for you, and it can be shorter or longer.
When people ask about it
- Rhythm problems with symptoms that medicines do not control well
Whether it suits you is a decision for a doctor who has examined you and seen your results.
How it usually works
- Review of your reportsA specialist reads your scans and tests and decides whether a catheter-based approach suits you.
- PreparationBlood tests, a check of kidney function if contrast dye is used, and instructions on fasting and medicines.
- The procedureA thin tube is passed through a blood vessel, usually at the wrist or groin, and guided by X-ray to the area being treated.
- MonitoringYou are observed for bleeding at the puncture site and for any changes in heart rhythm or blood pressure.
- Discharge and follow-up planYou receive medicines, activity advice and a schedule for review and repeat imaging.
Recovery and follow-up
- Palpitations can occur in the first weeks and do not always mean failure.
- Blood thinners are usually continued for a period.
- A repeat procedure is sometimes needed.
Every procedure carries risks, and they differ from person to person. Ask your doctor to explain the risks that apply to you before you decide.
What affects the cost
We do not publish prices we cannot stand behind. The total depends on you, the hospital and the doctor. After a doctor has reviewed your records, you receive an itemised written estimate before you decide anything.
- The hospital and the specialist team
- The device used (stent, valve, coil or implant)
- Room category and ICU needs
- Imaging and tests before and after
- Medicines and follow-up
- Your stay and a companion
Documents to prepare
- Recent scans and any previous angiogram or catheter reports
- ECG, echo or other heart or vascular test reports
- A list of all medicines, especially blood thinners
- Blood tests including kidney function
- Passport and visa documents
Travel and stay
- Ask when it is safe to fly; this depends on the procedure and your recovery.
- Carry your medicines, device card and a written summary in your hand luggage.
- Agree who will follow your heart or vessel health at home.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which energy and technique will you use?
- What are the chances I will need a repeat procedure?
- How long will I need blood thinners?
- Is this test or procedure needed now, or can it wait?
- What alternatives, including medicines alone, did you consider?
Also known as
- AF ablation
- SVT ablation
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Read the planning guidePlanning information only. This page gives general information to help you prepare questions and plan a trip. It does not diagnose, recommend a treatment or promise an outcome, a price or the availability of a doctor or hospital. Figures are broad, typical ranges and vary from person to person. Only a doctor who has examined you can say what is right for you. This page was prepared by Prognova's editorial team and has not yet been reviewed by a licensed clinician.