How you prepare

Your doctor will examine you and order several tests to evaluate your heart condition. He or she will discuss with you the risks and benefits of your atrial fibrillation ablation procedure. Let your doctor know about allergies or reactions you've had to medications. And tell him or her if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

You'll need to stop eating and drinking the night before your procedure. If you take any medications, ask your doctor if you should continue taking them before your procedure. In some cases, you'll be instructed to stop taking medications to treat a heart arrhythmia several days before your procedure.

If you have an implanted heart device, such as a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, talk to your doctor to see if you need to take any special precautions.