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Catheter ablation is usually done in a specially equipped room, called an
electrophysiology (EP) lab. Sometimes these procedures are performed in a
cardiac catheterization (cath) lab.
Normally you'll be taken to the EP lab on a movable bed and then
shifted onto a table. This special table is also movable and has a special
fluoroscopic camera over it. This camera (a fluoro) is like an x-ray video
camera. There is other equipment in an EP lab, including viewing screens,
heart monitors, and emergency equipment. Once on the table, you will be
connected to several types of monitoring equipment and then be covered
with a sterile drape.
There are usually several EP lab staff members present during the
procedure, including one or more electrophysiologists (a cardiologist with
special training), nurses, and technicians.
A staff person will shave and cleanse the area where the catheters will
be inserted. In most cases this will be the groin or neck area. To numb
the area, a local anesthetic is injected into the skin with a tiny
needle.
A small intravenous (IV) needle will be inserted into a vein in your
arm and connected to an IV line. This allows medications to be
administered if necessary.
Many times you will be awake during the procedure,
although medication is often given to help you relax and be more comfortable;
however, some people may fall asleep during the procedure. The staff will
monitor you constantly.
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