Cryoablation for atrial fibrillation
Discover another way to treat AFib.
If you’ve been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a safe, effective procedure may be an option before or after starting medications.
The Medtronic Arctic Front™ cryoablation system is the only ablation treatment approved by the FDA as a first option for AFib. It may provide long-term relief and improve your quality of life. A nurse advisor is ready to help.
Early treatment is important.
AFib is a condition that worsens over time. If left untreated, it may lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart problems. Early treatment with Medtronic cryoablation may slow the worsening of AFib compared to treatment with medications alone — and provide better symptom relief.
After a while I wasn’t seeing any success from medication. The cryoablation was amazing. My quality of life now is 100%.“
–Ben, cryoablation patient
Cryoablation vs. medication
Antiarrhythmic drugs are only effective in controlling atrial fibrillation in about half of patients, and AFib medication side effects can be burdensome. AFib patients often try multiple drugs before seeking treatment from a heart rhythm specialist.
Cryoablation is a safe, simple procedure that can offer long-term relief. It is an effective alternative to drugs that may make a positive difference in the way you feel.
Cryoablation 101: AFib treatment fast facts
Cryoablation is a medical procedure that uses cold energy to block unwanted electrical signals in the pulmonary veins. More than 1 million people have been treated with cryoablation.
Why treat atrial fibrillation?
AFib is a condition that worsens over time. If left untreated, AFib may increase the risk of heart failure and stroke. Reducing or eliminating symptoms can improve quality of life.
What are the benefits?
With cryoablation, you may get symptom relief and limit the side effects of AFib medications. Patients using cryoablation may be less likely to need repeat ablation or be rehospitalized.
What is the procedure like?
Cryoablation is usually an outpatient procedure, performed by an electrophysiologist, who uses a small incision to access pulmonary veins to freeze and disrupt unwanted signals that cause AFib.
Talk to your doctor to see if this is the right treatment option for you. Your physician should discuss all potential benefits and risks with you. Risks may include stroke, unintended tissue damage, creation of other heart arrhythmias, and death. Although many patients benefit from the use of this treatment, results may vary.
See how cryoablation could help.
When ordinary is extraordinary
Tim’s story: Freezing atrial fibrillation in its tracks
Atrial fibrillation almost derailed Tim’s journey to good health. But a revolutionary cryoablation treatment helped the former bodybuilder get back to the life he cherishes.
Patient stories
Clint’s story
Clint’s AFib made it hard to even get through a workday. After cryoablation, he felt like his old self again.
Patient stories
Dawn’s story
After Dawn’s cryoablation procedure, she was able to go back to the active lifestyle she enjoyed before AFib.
Patient stories
Nathan’s story
Nathan says that his life was back from the minute he woke up after his cryoablation, and he’s going full steam now.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information. Not every person will receive the same results.
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