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Catheter ablation

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is a procedure to reduce the burden of the irregular, often abnormally fast heart rhythm of AF and help the heart to maintain normal rhythm.  

It uses either heat (radiofrequency ablation), freezing (cryoablation), or a non-thermal energy source (pulsed field ablation) on the area of your heart that’s causing the abnormal heart rhythm. 

Who is suitable for catheter ablation?

Your cardiologist may recommend catheter ablation if: 

  • your overall health and the type of atrial fibrillation you have are  compatible with the treatment 
  • other treatments such as medication have not been successful 
  • you're not suitable for other treatments such as cardioversion 

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What does catheter ablation involve?

The procedure is commonly performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep. 

The femoral veins are used to access the heart. Thin electrical catheters (tubes) are passed through the veins to the heart. The appropriate area of the heart is identified, and treatment is delivered through the catheters. When the ablation is complete, the catheter is removed. 

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Contact our Self-Pay team

We offer a range of self-pay package options, including flexible Hospital Packages and all-inclusive Fixed Price Packages.

Request an appointment >

+44 (0)20 7244 4886

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Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

We have a team of highly experienced cardiologists who have developed their skills and knowledge working at some of London's leading NHS teaching hospitals.

Our cardiologists work collaboratively to combine their expertise. Working together, they will tailor your care to your needs.

Our diagnostic service uses the latest technology and an on-site laboratory for speedy test results.

We move fast. If you get in touch, we can offer a consultation to assess your case the next day.

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What is the recovery period?

After the procedure, you’ll be able to go home the same day or the day after. 

Your doctor will let you know when it is safe for you to drive. You should avoid heavy lifting for at least two weeks after your treatment. 

After 12 weeks, it will be clear if the treatment has been successful. Up until that point, you may have some continued symptoms such as palpitations. Catheter ablation can be repeated if your symptoms do not improve and your cardiologist will explain the alternative treatment options. 

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Self-pay package

As well as working with all major insurance companies, we also welcome patients who wish to pay for themselves. We offer a range of self-pay package options, including:

  • Hospital Packages: these are flexible packages that group standard diagnostics and the procedure into one clear price. Consultant and anaesthetist fees are separate, and any other addition to your treatment is billed separately.
  • Fixed Price Packages: these are comprehensive, all-inclusive packages that group everything you may need for treatment into one clear price. All of our Fixed Price Packages include pre-admission tests, procedure, all professional fees, all post-op outpatient care and any other consultant-recommended services as part of you treatment.

Fixed price package is £30,825. Below is an outline of our Hospital Price Package.

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Hospital package from £22,160 (day case), £23,070 (1 night), and £24,420 (2 nights).

Included in the package price:

  • pre-admission outpatient tests, which includes standard pathology and diagnostic tests (ECG, echo, and chest X-ray), if required
  • recovery and accommodation
  • ward medications, dressings, and nursing consumables
  • procedure, including anaesthetic drugs and consumables
  • 1x Medtronic balloon
  • transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE).
  • cardiology tests, including wireless patch and real-time echo.
  • standard post–op medication
  • discharge medication (up to £50)
  • all patient meals and non-alcoholic beverages (light meals for day cases).

Excluded from the package price:

  • consultant surgeon and anaesthetist fees
  • non-standard diagnostic tests
  • additional pathology
  • histology tests
  • take-out supplies
  • companion beds and catering for relatives or visitors
  • personal expenses, such as telephone calls, ambulances, and additional catering
  • re-admission

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Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.