A nonsurgical procedure used to treat specific types of rapid heart beat arrhythmia, radiofrequency ablation utilizes a special form of energy that, when delivered through the tip of a special catheter placed inside the heart, results in laser-like precision destruction of abnormal electrical tissues. These tissues are nerve bundles that are responsible for the patient’s irregular heartbeats. The procedure is assisted by real-time, moving X-rays (fluoroscopy) displayed on a video screen.

For more information on radiofrequency ablation, visit the Cleveland Clinic Website.