Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing the atria to quiver or fibrillate instead of contracting effectively. As a result, blood does not flow properly from the atria to the ventricles, leading to inefficient circulation and the potential formation of blood clots.

Over time, these irregular rhythms can cause symptoms like:

• Rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat

• Shortness of breath or fatigue

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Chest pain or pressure

• Episodes of weakness

While AFib itself is not immediately life-threatening, it can significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation Ablation?

Atrial fibrillation ablation is a catheter-based procedure that corrects the faulty electrical pathways in the heart responsible for AFib. The goal is to create small scars or lesions on the heart tissue to block or isolate the abnormal signals that cause irregular heartbeats.

During the procedure, a thin, flexible catheter is inserted through a vein in the groin or neck and guided into the heart using real-time X-ray or 3D mapping technology. Once positioned, energy is delivered through the catheter tip to the targeted areas.

There are two main types of energy sources used:

• Radiofrequency energy (heat-based) – uses controlled heat to destroy the abnormal tissue.

• Cryoablation (cold-based) – uses extreme cold to freeze and isolate the faulty tissue.

By eliminating or isolating these triggers, the heart’s rhythm can return to normal, reducing or even eliminating the need for long-term medication.

Who Needs Atrial Fibrillation Ablation?

Atrial fibrillation ablation may be recommended for patients who:

• Have persistent or paroxysmal AFib (episodes that come and go).

• Do not respond to anti-arrhythmic medications.

• Experience significant side effects from medications.

• Have a high risk of stroke or heart complications.

• Want a long-term solution to restore normal rhythm and improve quality of life.

Your cardiologist, in coordination with One Life Medical Tourism, will help determine whether you are a good candidate for this procedure after reviewing your medical history, ECG, echocardiogram, and other heart tests.

Preparation for Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Before the procedure, patients typically undergo a thorough preoperative evaluation, which may include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Holter monitoring to assess heart rhythm patterns.

• Echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure and function.

• Blood tests to check overall health.

• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) to detect any blood clots in the atria.

Patients may need to stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, for a short period before the procedure. Fasting for several hours before the operation is also required.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Anesthesia and Preparation

Atrial fibrillation ablation is usually performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia. The patient remains relaxed and comfortable throughout the process.

The doctor sterilizes the groin area and inserts a small sheath into the vein.

2. Catheter Insertion

Thin, flexible catheters are threaded through the vein and guided into the heart using fluoroscopic imaging or 3D cardiac mapping systems. This allows the electrophysiologist to visualize the electrical activity of the heart in real time.

3. Mapping the Electrical Pathways

Once the catheters reach the heart, advanced mapping technology is used to identify the precise locations of abnormal electrical signals that trigger atrial fibrillation.

4. Energy Delivery

The cardiologist then delivers either radiofrequency (heat) or cryoablation (cold) energy through the catheter tip to create small, controlled lesions in the targeted areas. These scars block or isolate the erratic electrical impulses that cause AFib.

5. Confirmation and Removal

After the ablation, the doctor confirms the success of the procedure by re-evaluating the heart’s rhythm. The catheters are then removed, and the insertion site is bandaged.

Duration and Hospital Stay

The entire procedure usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the patient’s condition. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days for observation and recovery before being discharged.

Recovery and Post-Procedure Care

Recovery after atrial fibrillation ablation is typically smooth. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week.

Here’s what post-procedure care includes:

• Monitoring: Heart rhythm and vital signs are observed for 24–48 hours.

• Medications: Doctors may prescribe blood thinners or anti-arrhythmic medications temporarily.

• Follow-up: Regular ECGs or Holter monitoring may be scheduled to track heart rhythm stability.

• Lifestyle: Avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks and follow a heart-healthy diet.

• Hydration and rest are essential for full recovery.

Some patients may experience mild chest discomfort or palpitations in the first few days — these are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

Benefits of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

• Restores normal heart rhythm (sinus rhythm)

• Reduces AFib symptoms such as palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath

• Decreases risk of stroke and heart failure

• Eliminates dependence on long-term medications

• Improves exercise tolerance and energy levels

• Enhances overall quality of life

Clinical studies show that over 70–80% of patients experience long-term relief from atrial fibrillation after successful ablation.

Risks and Complications

Although atrial fibrillation ablation is generally safe, as with any medical procedure, it carries certain risks, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site

• Blood clots or stroke (very rare)

• Damage to the blood vessels or heart tissue

• Fluid buildup around the heart (pericardial effusion)

• Temporary arrhythmias post-procedure

• Reaction to anesthesia

At One Life Medical Tourism, we ensure that patients receive care only from board-certified cardiologists with extensive experience in complex ablation procedures, minimizing risks and ensuring optimal outcomes.

Success Rate of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

The success rate of AFib ablation depends on several factors, including the type of atrial fibrillation and patient health. On average:

• Paroxysmal AFib: 75–85% success rate

• Persistent AFib: 60–75% success rate

Some patients may need a repeat procedure to achieve complete rhythm control. However, most experience significant improvement in symptoms and reduced dependency on medications.

Alternative Treatments

In some cases, doctors may recommend alternative or additional treatments, such as:

• Medication therapy: Anti-arrhythmic and rate-controlling drugs.

• Electrical cardioversion: A brief, controlled shock to reset heart rhythm.

• Lifestyle modifications: Weight control, managing hypertension, and reducing alcohol intake.

If these do not provide adequate control, catheter ablation remains the most effective long-term solution.

Why Choose India for Atrial Fibrillation Ablation?

India is rapidly emerging as a preferred global destination for advanced cardiac care. The country’s top-tier hospitals offer cutting-edge facilities, modern electrophysiology labs, and expert cardiac teams at a fraction of the international cost.

Key advantages include:

• Highly skilled cardiologists and electrophysiologists

• Modern 3D cardiac mapping and navigation systems

• Affordable treatment packages

• Personalized patient care and minimal waiting times

With One Life Medical Tourism, patients from around the world receive end-to-end support, from medical consultation and travel arrangements to post-treatment recovery.

Cost of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation in India

The cost of atrial fibrillation ablation in India varies based on hospital, technology, and the type of ablation performed. On average:

• Radiofrequency ablation: ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,00,000

• Cryoablation: ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,00,000

This is significantly lower than the costs in the USA, UK, or Middle Eastern countries, where similar procedures may cost between ₹15–20 lakh.

One Life Medical Tourism ensures transparent pricing, comprehensive pre-arrival counseling, and access to hospitals with proven success records.

Why Choose One Life Medical Tourism?

One Life Medical Tourism is dedicated to making world-class healthcare accessible, affordable, and seamless for patients seeking cardiac and other advanced treatments in India.

Our services include:

• Personalized doctor and hospital selection based on your case.

• Visa assistance and medical documentation support.

• Pre- and post-treatment coordination for a smooth medical journey.

• Accommodation, travel, and interpreter services for international patients.

• 24×7 assistance from arrival to recovery.

We partner only with NABH- and JCI-accredited hospitals and ensure that each patient receives compassionate, professional care throughout their stay.

Atrial fibrillation ablation is a life-changing procedure for patients struggling with irregular heart rhythms. By targeting and correcting the source of AFib, it restores normal heart function, reduces the risk of stroke, and dramatically improves quality of life.

With One Life Medical Tourism, you gain access to India’s best cardiac specialists, advanced technology, and affordable care — all under one trusted network. Our dedicated team ensures that your treatment experience is stress-free, safe, and successful from the moment you arrive until your full recovery.

If you or your loved one has been advised to undergo atrial fibrillation ablation, contact One Life Medical Tourism today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier heart — and a renewed life.