Ablation for SVT

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Hi everyone! L&D RN here.....

I'm going in for RF ablation for svt in a few weeks, and had a few questions I thought you might be able to help with (no medical advice sought- just a little info).

What's the typical post-procedure routine? I will be staying overnight, and I know I'll be on bed rest for a few hours initially, but will I be able to get up and move around ad lib afterwards? Should I expect continuous monitoring until the next day, or just for a little while?

Also, what are the usual and customary d/c instructions? The electrophysiologist said no heavy lifting for a little while- about how long until most patients can resume moderate physical exercise? Most of my svt episodes occurred after strenuous cardio workouts, and anxiety about touching off another episode has kept me out of the gym the last few weeks. (I'm already looking forward to getting back to the gym without having to wonder if my post-workout cooldown will include Adenocard).

Thanks in advance for the ever-helpful anticipatory guidance!

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Specializes in RETIRED Cath Lab/Cardiology/Radiology.

I've never worked with EP pts, so don't know what to tell you.

My advice is to refer you back to your EP MD, to clarify the areas for which you have questions (EP docs may differ on their immediate- and long-term post-procedure restrictions and orders. If anyone tells you the routine from his/her lab, you may receive erroneous [but kindly meant :)] information).

Wishing you a successful procedure and speedy recovery! :)

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Specializes in ICU.

After an ablation, you will be on a cardiac monitor until you are discharged. Plan for flat bedrest for 4-6 hours post procedure and frequent checks of your groin sites and pedal pulses. Typically after the bedrest period, you should be able to get up an move around.

Good luck, and I hope all goes well!

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Specializes in Cardiothoracic Transplant Telemetry.

I feel for you. I too am an SVT'er and actually underwent the procedure myself twice last year. I do want to take a minute to reassure you that just because I did the procedure twice that you shouldn't worry too much, the success rate for SVT ablation is something like 90% -- I was just a fluke, one that still irritates my doc everytime I see him!

In general, bed rest for a few hours with groin checks as others have said, monitoring till discharge which should be the next morning....

General post-op is no swimming or tub baths for 2 weeks

no lifting over 10 pounds for 1 week

no squatting

no sitting in straight back chairs or in cars for longer than one hour at a stretch to prevent clot formation.

Your doc may or may not have you take an aspirin a day for the first month- that is a matter of individual practice.

As for activity and resuming your workout routine, that would be a question for your doc. That is an area where I have heard different things, though I did not have any restrictions on activity at all after the first week.

Feel free to pm me with any specific questions.

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry/PCU, SNF.
I feel for you. I too am an SVT'er and actually underwent the procedure myself twice last year. I do want to take a minute to reassure you that just because I did the procedure twice that you shouldn't worry too much, the success rate for SVT ablation is something like 90% -- I was just a fluke, one that still irritates my doc everytime I see him!

In general, bed rest for a few hours with groin checks as others have said, monitoring till discharge which should be the next morning....

General post-op is no swimming or tub baths for 2 weeks

no lifting over 10 pounds for 1 week

no squatting

no sitting in straight back chairs or in cars for longer than one hour at a stretch to prevent clot formation.

Your doc may or may not have you take an aspirin a day for the first month- that is a matter of individual practice.

As for activity and resuming your workout routine, that would be a question for your doc. That is an area where I have heard different things, though I did not have any restrictions on activity at all after the first week.

Feel free to pm me with any specific questions.

:yeahthat:

Also, hope they pull the sheaths before you leave the lab, other wise you'll be on your back far longer that 4-6 hours.

Tom

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

As Dianah pointed out, we just can't provide you the answers you request as each case is individual. Please ask your EP MD. Good luck and take care.

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