What happens prior to your procedure?
You will receive a letter from the hospital bookings clerk or from the Doctors secretary outlining the date of your procedure and date and time of your admission to the hospital.
In some cases a letter asking you to cease taking your medication is enclosed. This generally refers only to the medication you are taking for your abnormal heart rhythm. Your doctor will specify which medications he wants you to stop. These are usually stopped approximately 5 days prior to your procedure. If you are taking warfarin this will usually be continued but the dose may be varied in the days before the procedure based on your blood test results. If you are taking other blood thinners (Pradaxa, Xarelto or Eliquis) these would be stopped approximately 24-48 hours before the procedure and instructions will be provided.
On the day before the procedure, a CT scan of your heart will be performed. This will be used during your ablation procedure.
https://melbourneheartrhythm.com.au/learn/procedures/13-atrial-fibrillation-ablation?start=2#sigProIdd169787f57
Patients having the procedure at the Royal Melbourne Hospital will be required to attend our Pre-admission clinic on the day prior to your procedure where you will see a doctor who will record your medical history. You will also require an ECG and blood test. The doctor will also confirm the time you should be at the hospital for admission the following day. You will be required to fast for at least six hours before the study. If your procedure is in the afternoon you may have a light early breakfast. If your procedure is in the morning, DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER MIDNIGHT, except for a sip of water to help you swallow your pills.
