A heart during AV node ablation

Atrioventricular (AV) node ablation uses heat energy, called radiofrequency energy, to destroy the area between the upper and lower heart chambers. This area is called the AV node. The heart's electrical signals can't pass through the damaged area. So this treatment blocks the faulty heart signals that cause atrial fibrillation (AFib). Once the AV node is destroyed, a pacemaker is needed to control the heart rhythm.

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