Let's learn everything about SVT Ablation treatment, which controls the heartbeat!

Do you sometimes feel like your heart rate suddenly increases for no apparent reason? As if you've just run a lot? This could be a symptom of a condition you've probably heard of called `Supraventricular Tachycardia` or `(SVT)`. Although this can be a scary experience, don't worry. There are now very effective treatments for this. Today we're talking about one such highly effective treatment, `SVT Ablation`.

Simply put, what is SVT Ablation?

`SVT Ablation` is a procedure that damages and deactivates a few cells in the upper chambers of your heart that interfere with the electrical signals related to the heartbeat. Think of our heart's electrical system as being like the wiring system in a house. Normally, the heart beats properly only when electrical signals travel in an orderly manner through these "wires."

But in some people, a small loop, or something like a loop, forms in this "wire" system. Then it becomes like a "short circuit" , the normal rhythm of the heart is disrupted, and the heart suddenly starts beating faster. In `Ablation` treatment, a very thin tube called a special `catheter` is used to go inside the heart, find the "short circuit" that is sending the wrong signals, and deactivate it.

There are two ways to do this:

• Radiofrequency energy: Some catheters send heat to destroy the cells and create a small scar.
• Freezing: Some catheters use extreme cold to deactivate those cells.

Both of these methods block the pathway that sends the wrong electrical signals, allowing the heart to beat normally again.

How common is this treatment?

On average, about two out of every 1,000 people in the world may have SVT. However, a large number of people, between 60% and 80%, get good relief with medication. So, this `Ablation` treatment is often a very good solution for those who are difficult to control with medication.

What should be done before SVT Ablation?

This is not a major surgery, but it does require a little preparation.

• The treatment requires complete abstinence from food and drink for 6 to 8 hours (fasting).
• Your doctor may ask you to stop taking some of your current medications (especially blood thinners) for a few days. Your doctor will give you clear instructions about this.

What happens during treatment?

This treatment is done in a special place called an `electrophysiology lab.` Let's take a simple step-by-step look at what happens in this.

Are you completely lost?

Most of the time, you won't be completely awake. You'll be given medication to make you feel light sleepy and a little tipsy. We call this `conscious sedation .' At this time, you won't be fully aware of what's going on around you, and you won't feel any pain. But very rarely, in some special cases, you may need to be given `general anesthesia.' That's up to your doctor to decide based on your condition.

Is this painful?

Actually, you don't feel any pain when you heat those wrong cells. The doctor numbs the area where the catheter is inserted. So the only pain you feel is a small, prickly sensation when you get the numbing injection (lidocaine).

What happens after treatment?

After the treatment is over and all the catheters are removed, the site of the catheter is clamped to stop the bleeding. Sometimes a small device called a vascular closure device is used to close the wound. After that, you will have to lie in bed with your legs extended for about 6 to 8 hours . This may be uncomfortable, but it is essential to prevent complications such as bleeding.

What are the benefits and risks of this treatment?

As with any medical treatment, there are benefits and very minor risks.

How long does it take to heal?

Another good thing about this is that you can recover quickly. You can go home and start your normal activities (like office work, housework) the next day . However, if you want to do something that requires a little effort, like lifting weights, or exercising, it's best to wait at least three days .

When should you see a doctor?

It is very important to take care of your body after treatment. Be aware of the following symptoms.

Having an irregular heartbeat can be scary. But don't worry, there are very effective treatments for it. SVT ablation is one such highly effective, low-risk treatment. If you have these symptoms, talk to your doctor to decide if this treatment is right for you.