Do You Experience an Abnormal Heart Rhythm? This type of heart problem can be treated at LADY POHAMBA PRIVATE HOSPITAL! Only recently this health service and treatment became available in Namibia!
THE TREATMENT CONSISTS OF AN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY STUDY AND CATHETER ALBLATION What is an electrophysiology (EP) study and catheter ablation? An EP study is a test to measure the electrical activity of the heart and to diagnose arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythms. An abnormal heart rhythm is a change in either the speed or the pattern of the heartbeat. During an abnormal heart rhythm, the heart may beat too slowly, too rapidly or irregularly. This means that the heart’s electrical impulse pathway is interrupted by abnormal signals which cause irregular contractions of the heart muscle. During an EP study, an electrode catheter (a specialised wire) is inserted into the heart to record the electrical signals from the inside of the heart to detect the origin of the abnormal heart rhythm. After the study follows the catheter ablation procedure. Catheter ablation is a procedure performed to treat some types of abnormal heart rhythms. A Cardiologist (specialist doctor) positions an electrode catheter in the heart, close to the abnormal electrical impulse pathway that is causing the abnormal heart rhythm. The
doctor initiates radio-frequency energy through the catheter tip. The catheter tip is heated to destroy the small area of the heart tissue containing the abnormal electrical impulse pathway. The ‘burn’ heals with a small scar and the abnormal electrical impulse pathway is no longer capable of producing the abnormal heart rhythm.
Is the EP study and catheter ablation procedure safe? Yes, the EP study and catheter ablation procedure is considered safe. As with any procedure, there are potential risks. The risks will be explained by the Cardiologist (specialist doctor) before the procedure is performed. How long will the procedure (EP study and catheter ablation) take? An EP study and catheter ablation may take between two to six hours, depending on the condition of the patient. A patient that undergoes the procedure may return home the same day after the procedure or spend one night in the hospital and return home the next morning.
Pay attention to your body and call our Emergency Number on:
0833 911 Or visit our Emergency Centre
FACILITIES
Contact Us: Emergency Centre: +264 83 335 9040 | Switchboard: +264 83 335 9000 | Admissions: + 264 83 335 9003/ 4 / 5 / 6 admissions@lpph.com.na | Namibia Radiology: +264 83 335 9700 MAY 2018 | FLAMINGO
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