Catheter ablation procedures for supraventricular tachyarrhythmia (SVTA) including atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation
Catheter ablation is a procedure used to treat some types of heart arrhythmias (variations from a normal heartbeat). The procedure is typically performed in a catheter lab and involves guided insertion of catheters from the arm, groin, or neck through the blood vessel and into the heart. In radiofrequency catheter ablation, radiofrequency energy is sent through the catheters to a focal point in the heart that is believed to be the source of the arrhythmia; this energy ablates (destroys) very small areas of the heart to disrupt conduction of abnormal electrical activity.
Status: Decision completed
Why is catheter ablation for SVTA being reviewed?
The HCA has selected ablation therapies for supraventricular tachyarrhythmia including atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation for review. The topic was nominated based on high levels of concern around efficacy and cost, and on medium levels of concern around safety.
Primary criteria ranking
- Safety = Medium
- Efficacy = High
- Cost = High
Documentation
| Type | Materials |
|---|---|
| Assessment (2013) |
Assessment timeline
- Draft key questions published: August 15, 2012
- Public comment period: August 15 to August 31, 2012
- Draft report published: March 5, 2013
- Public comment period: March 5 to April 5, 2013
- Final report published: April 15, 2013
- HTCC public meeting: May 17, 2013