Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) by using heat generated from radiofrequency energy to destroy (ablate) small areas of heart tissue that are causing the arrhythmia. It’s typically used when arrhythmias don't respond to medications or when a more permanent solution is needed.

Here's how the procedure works:

1. Preparation: The patient is usually sedated under supervision of an anesthesiologist to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. A catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin, and guided to the heart.

2. Mapping: Once the catheter is in place, it is used to map the electrical activity of the heart. This helps doctors identify the exact location of the abnormal electrical signals causing the arrhythmia.

3. Ablation: Once the source of the arrhythmia is located, the catheter delivers radiofrequency energy, which generates heat to destroy the abnormal tissue. This creates scar tissue that prevents the abnormal electrical signals from traveling through the heart, thereby correcting the arrhythmia.

4. Post-procedure: After the ablation, the catheter is removed, and the patient is monitored for a short period to ensure no immediate complications occur, such as bleeding or heart rhythm changes.

Radiofrequency ablation is most commonly used for arrhythmias like supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial flutter, and Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. The procedure is often very effective in providing long-term relief and can potentially eliminate the need for ongoing medication or frequent hospital visits.

However, like any procedure, RFA carries some risks, including:

• Infection at the catheter insertion site

• Bleeding or damage to blood vessels

• Injury to the heart, including the risk of causing other arrhythmias

• Blood clots, which can lead to stroke (especially in atrial fibrillation)

Overall, radiofrequency ablation is a highly effective treatment option for many patients with arrhythmias, offering the potential for a cure or significant symptom relief.