What is pulmonary vein ablation (pulmonary vein antrum isolation)?
Research has shown that almost all atrial fibrillation signals come from the four pulmonary veins. Pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI), also called pulmonary vein ablation, is a treatment for atrial fibrillation. During pulmonary vein ablation, a doctor inserts catheters into the blood vessels of the atrium. A special machine delivers energy through the catheters to the area of the atria that connects to the pulmonary vein (ostia). This energy (ablation) produces a circular scar that blocks any impulses firing from within the pulmonary vein, thereby “disconnecting” the pathway of the abnormal rhythm and preventing atrial fibrillation. In some cases, pulmonary vein ablation also may be performed in other parts of the heart such as the superior vena cava. How can I be evaluated for the pulmonary vein antrum isolation (or pulmonary vein ablation)? If you are currently being treated outside the Cleveland Clinic Foundation: • If you are currently being treated outside of The Cleveland Cl
