Is Ablation Open Heart Surgery?

Surgical ablation, also known as maze surgery or Cox-maze procedure, aims to eliminate atrial fibrillation (A-fib). It is a form of open-heart surgery often performed while a person is having a surgery for additional heart problems, such as a valve replacement or heart bypass.

Is a heart ablation considered surgery?

Catheter ablation, also called radiofrequency or pulmonary vein ablation, isn't surgery. Your doctor puts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel in your leg or neck and guides it to your heart. When it reaches the area that's causing the arrhythmia, it can destroy those cells.

How long does it take to recover from heart ablation surgery?

Common Symptoms After Ablation

The ablated (or destroyed) areas of tissue inside your heart may take up to eight weeks to heal. You may still have arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) during the first few weeks after your ablation. During this time, you may need anti-arrhythmic medications or other treatment.