What is the purpose of catheter ablation in treating atrial fibrillation?

The purpose of catheter ablation in treating atrial fibrillation is to destroy areas of heart tissue that trigger abnormal electrical signals, which cause the condition. In atrial fibrillation, certain areas of the heart exhibit hyperactive electrical activity that leads to the irregular and often rapid heart rhythms characteristic of this arrhythmia.

By using a catheter, which is a thin, flexible tube, doctors can target and eliminate these problematic tissues, specifically in the pulmonary veins and the surrounding atrial myocardium. This procedure aims to restore a normal rhythm to the heart by interrupting the faulty electrical pathways, thereby reducing or eliminating the episodes of atrial fibrillation. The effectiveness of this intervention can significantly improve symptoms, reduce the need for long-term medication, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.

In contrast, regulating blood pressure, facilitating angioplasty, and implanting a defibrillator are unrelated to the specific mechanism and treatment goals of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. These other options either address different cardiovascular issues or represent distinct treatment modalities not aimed at correcting the underlying electrophysiological causes of atrial fibrillation itself.