I was first diagnosed with frequent premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) in March 2024. After monitoring and considering my options for a year, I finally decided to go for an ablation procedure, as the PVC burden had increased and my heart function was weakening.
First, let us understand what catheter ablation is. It is a procedure to treat the arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) by modifying/eliminating the abnormal pathway or cardiac tissue that causes it. A few catheters will be inserted into the veins (groin area for my case) and maneuvered to the heart under X-ray guidance. By delivering radiofrequency at these sites, the tissue at the tip of the catheter heats up to 50-70 degree Celsius, thereby permanently altering the area.
On 26 August 2025, I underwent the procedure. Surprisingly, I felt calm and composed throughout the entire time. I was wheeled in around 12:33pm, where the electrophysiology team began preparations. Cold patches were placed on the front and back of my body. Sedation kept me relaxed, though it wore off near the end of the procedure.
My doctor shared afterwards that they found the source of the abnormal beats quite easily, as my PVC burden was high (44% of the time). They ablated one site multiple times, and the entire procedure lasted about 1.5 hours.
Thankfully, the procedure was successful. My heart rhythm returned to normal and my blood pressure improved — a huge relief.
Afterwards, I was moved to recovery for close monitoring of my heart rhythm and wound, and then transferred to the Short Stay Unit (SSU) by 3:45pm. I had to keep my right leg straight for 6 hours, only allowed to get up and walk around 9pm.
I’m deeply grateful to the wonderful doctors and nurses at NHC who cared for me throughout this journey.
Now, 3 days post-surgery, my wound is healing well. However, I still feel some chest discomfort and lightheadedness. I’m unsure if these symptoms are still related to PVCs or part of the recovery process — but I’ll be monitoring closely.