Tests and Procedures
AV node ablation
Risks
The risks of atrial fibrillation ablation vary depending on whether you are undergoing a catheter ablation or open-heart surgery, which is less common. Risks include:
- Bleeding or infection at the surgical site or where your catheter was inserted
- Damage to your blood vessels
- Puncture of your heart
- Damage to your heart valves
- Damage to your heart's electrical system, which could worsen your arrhythmia and require a pacemaker to correct
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism)
- Stroke or heart attack
- Narrowing of the veins that carry blood between your lungs and heart (pulmonary vein stenosis)
- Death in rare cases
Discuss the risks and benefits of atrial fibrillation ablation with your doctor to understand if it's right for you.