In my many years of working with heart disease, atrial fibrillation has always been one of the most troubling problems for patients. This abnormal rhythm of the heart not only affects the patient's daily activities, but can also pose serious health risks. However, radiofrequency ablation as an advanced treatment for atrial fibrillation offers hope for many patients. With this technology, we are able to locate and eliminate areas of the heart that trigger atrial fibrillation, helping patients restore a normal heartbeat. However, despite the remarkable results of radiofrequency ablation, some patients still experience relapse, which is undoubtedly a huge challenge for them and their families.
Let me share the story of Mr. Lee, a 60-year-old retired teacher whose story of atrial fibrillation is typical. Mr. Lee first came to my clinic five years ago with heart palpitations and fatigue. After a thorough examination, we diagnosed him with non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Initially, we tried medication, but the effect was limited. Subsequently, we decided to go with radiofrequency ablation, which was a seemingly ideal solution.
After the radiofrequency ablation procedure, Mr. Li's symptoms improved significantly, and he did not feel atrial fibrillation for almost a year. However, after about 18 months, atrial fibrillation unfortunately recurred. His disappointment was understandable. Mr. Li returned to my clinic and asked me suspiciously, "Doctor, we have done radiofrequency ablation, why does my atrial fibrillation recur?"
This question has made me think deeply and has also prompted me to explore more about the causes of atrial fibrillation recurrence and consider whether a more comprehensive treatment plan can be provided by integrating TCM approaches. Mr. Li's case not only increases our understanding of the mechanism of atrial fibrillation recurrence, but also stimulates the discussion of the role of TCM in the modern healthcare system.
Overview of radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, or atrial fibrillation, is a common arrhythmia that manifests as abnormal electrical activity in the atria that causes the heart to beat irregularly and quickly. For patients who do not respond well to medical therapy or who are not appropriate, radiofrequency ablation becomes an important treatment option. Radiofrequency ablation uses the heat energy generated by electromagnetic waves to precisely destroy the tissue areas of the heart that cause abnormal heart rhythms, thereby restoring normal heart rates and rhythms.
Step Analysis:
Preparation phase: Before radiofrequency ablation, the doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform necessary cardiac tests, such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography. These checks help determine the precise location of the abnormal circuit.
Ablation is performed: the patient usually remains awake during the ablation process, but is given a local anesthetic and an appropriate amount of sedation. The doctor inserts a long, catheter through a vein, usually through the thigh and all the way to the heart. Electrodes at the tip of the catheter are used to generate radiofrequency energy to precisely ablate areas of the heart that produce abnormal electrical signals.
Monitoring and evaluation: Continuously monitor the patient's heart rate and other vital signs throughout the process to ensure safety and efficacy. Once the ablation is complete, the patient will need to stay in the hospital for a brief period of observation, usually overnight, to monitor for any possible immediate complications.
What to expect:
The main goal of radiofrequency ablation is to restore a normal heart rhythm and reduce or eliminate episodes of atrial fibrillation. Success rates vary from person to person, but in most cases, this technique significantly improves symptoms and reduces dependence on long-term drug therapy. Despite a certain recurrence rate, radiofrequency ablation is currently one of the most effective methods for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.
Causes of recurrence of atrial fibrillation
Introduction to radiofrequency ablation
Atrial fibrillation, also known as atrial fibrillation, is a common arrhythmia that can lead to heart dysfunction and reduced quality of life. Radiofrequency ablation is one of the most effective treatments for atrial fibrillation, which uses high-frequency radio waves to generate heat energy that destroys areas of heart tissue that cause abnormal electrical activity to restore normal heart rhythm.
Analysis of the causes of recurrence
Despite the widespread clinical use of radiofrequency ablation techniques, recurrence of atrial fibrillation remains a common problem. Here, we'll explore a few key factors that may lead to the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after treatment:
Postoperative scar tissue formation: Although radiofrequency ablation treatment can disrupt abnormal electrical circuitry, postoperative scar tissue formation can sometimes become a new source of abnormal electrical signals. This scarring may cause the electrical signals to be abnormally conducted again, triggering a recurrence of atrial fibrillation.
Structural problems in the patient's heart: Structural abnormalities of the heart (e.g., valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathy, etc.) may fundamentally support the presence and recurrence of atrial fibrillation. If these structural problems are not properly managed, atrial fibrillation may recur even after ablation surgery.
Failure to completely isolate the pulmonary veins: The pulmonary veins are a common area where atrial fibrillation develops. A key goal of radiofrequency ablation surgery is to isolate abnormal electrical signal transmission between the pulmonary veins and the left atrium. If the separation is not complete, atrial fibrillation is likely to recur.
Lifestyle factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, sleep apnea, etc., can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence. If the patient cannot change the bad lifestyle habits after surgery, atrial fibrillation may recur even if the ablation surgery is successful.
Changes in electrophysiological properties: The electrophysiological properties of the heart may vary due to age, disease, or other reasons, and these changes may make the heart more susceptible to fibrillation. In addition, adaptogenic changes that may occur in the heart over time may also contribute to the recurrence of atrial fibrillation.
The role of TCM in the treatment of atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, also known as atrial fibrillation, is a common arrhythmia that stresses many patients and their families. While Western medicine provides treatment through technologies such as radiofrequency ablation, Chinese medicine also offers a unique set of solutions. These methods have been practiced for thousands of years and offer hope to many patients.
1. Traditional Chinese medicine views on atrial fibrillation
In TCM theory, atrial fibrillation is often attributed to "weakness of heart qi" or "loss of heart yin". Heart Qi deficiency indicates a lack of cardiac motivation, while Heart Yin deficiency involves a weakening of the heart's lubrication and cooling functions. The focus of treatment is usually on replenishing the heart qi, nourishing the heart yin, and harmonizing the functions of the heart and other organs.
2. TCM treatments
TCM treatment for atrial fibrillation usually involves traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications, and here are some specific strategies:
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Depending on the patient's specific constitution and symptoms, the doctor may prescribe Chinese medicine to nourish the heart qi or the heart yin. For example, cinnamon sticks, licorice, astragalus, and salvia are all commonly used Chinese herbs that help boost heart function and improve blood circulation.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is used to regulate the flow of qi and blood in the body, especially to the heart-related meridians. Commonly used acupuncture points include Neiguan acupoint, Shenmen acupoint, etc., and the stimulation of these acupuncture points helps to feel at ease and stabilize the heartbeat.
Lifestyle modifications: These include making appropriate dietary adjustments, avoiding overexertion, and managing stress. TCM also emphasizes the importance of peace of mind and emotional conditioning in the treatment of heart diseases.
3. The auxiliary role of traditional Chinese medicine
While TCM methods should not be used as a primary treatment for atrial fibrillation as a substitute for Western medical interventions such as radiofrequency ablation, they can be used as an adjunct to help improve patients' general health and quality of life. Especially when it comes to alleviating symptoms, enhancing physical fitness, and reducing recurrence, TCM provides an effective supplement.