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.

If you are taking anti-coagulation (blood thinning) medication then you may need to stop this prior to your procedure. We will discuss this with you prior to your procedure. If this has not been discussed with you, or if you are unsure, please contact us.

Patients having the procedure at the Royal Melbourne Hospital will be required to attend the pre-admission clinic on the day prior to the procedure.

Some country patients may need to make arrangements to stay overnight with family or friends.

At the pre-admission clinic 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 each of the procedures.  If your procedure is in the afternoon you may have a light breakfast.  If your procedure is in the morning, DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER MIDNIGHT, except for sips of water to help you swallow your pills.

IIf there are any questions about your ablation procedure please contact us via the website at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact 9342 7133

AV node ablation: Download Patient information

Pacemaker: Download Patient information PPM

Atrial Fibrillation (AF): Download Patient information