Post-Operative Care and Considerations After Radiofrequency Ablation for Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) has been in clinical use since the 1970s and is now a well-established, curative approach for this arrhythmia. With decades of successful application both domestically and internationally, the procedure is considered a mature and reliable technology in secondary and tertiary hospitals today.

Immediate Post-Procedure Monitoring

After the RFA procedure, it is essential to closely monitor the patient's vascular access sites—whether arterial or venous—for signs of bleeding or hematoma formation. Additionally, healthcare providers should assess distal circulation by checking the dorsalis pedis pulse. Vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate, should be regularly evaluated. Continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is also standard practice in the immediate post-operative period to detect any arrhythmias or complications.

Post-Discharge Care and Warning Signs

Once the patient is discharged, they should remain vigilant for any complications at the puncture site. Signs such as bleeding, swelling, or the presence of a hard lump may indicate a hematoma or ongoing bleeding. Particular attention should be paid to the leg used for the procedure—if sudden swelling occurs, it could signal a venous thrombosis related to the intervention. In such cases, patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention. A mechanical compression dressing may be applied temporarily, but ultrasound imaging is often required to assess the extent of any hematoma or clot formation.

Encouraging Early Mobility

One of the key aspects of post-ablation recovery is early mobilization. Prolonged bed rest can lead to sluggish blood flow in the lower extremities, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Therefore, unless the femoral artery was accessed, patients should be encouraged to resume light activity within 6 hours post-procedure. For those who underwent femoral artery puncture, a minimum of 12 hours of restricted movement is typically recommended before resuming activities such as walking. However, if a closure device was used during the procedure, some patients may be able to resume light movement as soon as two hours after the ablation.

Conclusion

Proper post-operative care following radiofrequency ablation for PSVT plays a critical role in minimizing complications and ensuring a smooth recovery. By following medical advice on wound care, monitoring for unusual symptoms, and engaging in timely physical activity, patients can significantly reduce the risk of post-procedural issues and return to normal life more quickly.