Medically reviewed by Dr Pinakin V Parekh, General & Interventional Cardiologist (MBBS (Singapore), MRCP (UK), GDFM (Singapore), FAMS (Singapore), FRCP (Glasgow)). Last Updated: 2026, 28 August
Founder & Medical Director of Trident Heart Centre
Dr Pinakin V Parekh is an interventional cardiologist in Singapore with over 20 years of experience in heart care. He specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of heaart diseases, including procedures such as angiogram and angioplasty.
Catheter ablation is a procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) by targeting the areas of the heart that are sending incorrect electrical signals.
It involves:
The goal is to restore a normal, steady heartbeat.
Your doctor may recommend catheter ablation if you have:
It is often considered when arrhythmias begin to affect your energy levels, comfort, or confidence in daily activities.
Catheter ablation is commonly used to treat several types of abnormal heart rhythms, including:
Irregular and often rapid heartbeat
Atrial flutter:
Organised but abnormal fast rhythm
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT):
Sudden episodes of fast heartbeat
Certain Ventricular Arrhythmias:
Abnormal rhythms originating from the lower chambers of the heart
Your heart rhythm is controlled by electrical signals. In some conditions, these signals become disrupted or misfiring.
Catheter ablation works by:
The rest of your heart continues to function normally
Catheter ablation is performed in a specialised cardiac procedure room.
Before the procedure, you may be advised to:
Your care team will give you clear instructions before the day of the procedure.
During catheter ablation:
The procedure can take a few hours depending on the type of arrhythmia being treated.
After the procedure:
Your doctor will provide instructions for recovery and follow-up care.
Catheter ablation may offer several benefits, including:
Catheter ablation is generally considered a safe and well-established procedure. However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks, including:
Your doctor will discuss your individual risk profile before the procedure.
Recovery varies depending on the type of arrhythmia treated and individual health.
In general:
Your doctor will guide you on when it is safe to return to full activity.
You will not feel pain during the procedure as sedation or anaesthesia is used. Some mild soreness at the insertion site may occur afterwards.
It usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the condition.
Most patients are sedated and feel comfortable or lightly asleep during the procedure.
In some cases, arrhythmia can recur, and a repeat procedure or medication may be needed.
Dr Pinakin uses current, evidence-based methods to carefully evaluate and treat heart conditions, helping you feel confident in your care.
Every patient is treated as an individual, with attention to your full health and lifestyle, not just the heart problem.
From assessment to treatment, screenings and procedures are conveniently coordinated in one place for a smoother, more reassuring experience.
