Catheter Ablation: Before Your Child's Procedure

What is a catheter ablation?

A catheter ablation may be done if there is a problem with your child's heartbeat (heart rhythm). This procedure destroys (ablates) tiny areas of the heart that are causing the heart rhythm problem. This should not affect the heart's ability to do its job.

The doctor puts thin tubes called catheters into blood vessels in your child's groin, arm, or neck. The tubes are guided to your child's heart. There is an electrode at the tip of each tube. The electrode helps the doctor find the problem areas. Then the doctor uses the electrode to send energy to destroy the areas of heart tissue that are causing the problem.

Your child will get medicines to feel relaxed or to sleep. Medicines also numb the areas where the catheters go in. Your child may feel a little pressure when the catheters go in.

After an ablation, your child may have to stay in the hospital.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

• Follow the instructions exactly about when your child should stop eating and drinking. If you don't, the procedure may be canceled. If your doctor told you to have your child take any medicines on the day of the procedure, have your child take them with only a sip of water.
• Follow the doctor's instructions about when your child should bathe or shower before the procedure. Do not apply lotion or deodorant.
• Your child may brush their teeth. But tell your child not to swallow any toothpaste or water.
• Do not let your child wear contact lenses. Bring your child's glasses or contact lens case.
• Be sure your child has something that's a reminder of home. A special stuffed animal, toy, or blanket may be comforting. For an older child, it might be a book or music.

At the hospital or surgery center

• A parent or legal guardian must accompany your child.
• Your child will be kept comfortable and safe by the anesthesia provider. Your child may get medicine to bring on a light sleep or to help your child relax. The area being worked on will be numb.
• This procedure can take 2 to 6 hours. In rare cases, it can take longer.
• After the procedure, your child will be taken to the recovery room. As your child wakes up, the recovery staff will monitor your child's condition. The doctor will talk to you about the procedure.
• Pressure will be applied to the area where the catheter was put in the blood vessel. Then the area may be covered with a bandage or a compression device. This will prevent bleeding. Nurses will check the area often.
• If the catheter was put in your child's groin, your child will need to lie still and keep the leg straight for up to a few hours.
• If the catheter was put in your child's neck or arm, your child may be able to sit up right away. If it was in an arm, your child will need to keep the arm still for at least 1 hour.
• Your child may have a bruise or a small lump where the catheter was put in the blood vessel. This is normal and will go away.