What Is Catheter Ablation?

Catheter ablation is a non-surgical technique primarily used to pinpoint and correct heart arrhythmias. The location and type of arrhythmia determine if catheter ablation is a good treatment option for you. In many cases, this option is preferable to medication, which can have side effects.

Ablation is often done in conjunction with an electrophysiological study (EPS). An EPS is the most accurate way to evaluate heart rhythms and to locate the source of an arrhythmia. Learn more about EPS.

What conditions does catheter ablation treat?

Catheter ablation can be used to treat common types of heart arrhythmias and heart conditions including, but not limited to:

How catheter ablation works

Catheter ablation works by sending a series of thin, flexible wires (catheters) through a blood vessel in the arm, upper thigh or neck and guiding them to the heart.

A special machine delivers energy through the catheters to tiny areas of the heart muscle that cause the abnormal heart rhythm. This energy disconnects the pathway of the abnormal rhythm.

Learn more about what to expect before, during and after a catheter ablation.

Cardiac Arrhythmia Service

Our expert team of cardiac electrophysiologists offers innovative treatments for the many types of arrhythmia. Learn more about the Stanford Cardiac Arrhythmia Service and the types of arrhythmias we treat.
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300 Pasteur Drive
Stanford, CA 94305
Phone: 650-723-6459
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