Cardiac Ablation
A catheter-based procedure that uses radiofrequency or cryo (freezing) energy to destroy small areas of heart tissue responsible for abnormal heart rhythms.
Overview
Cardiac ablation is a minimally invasive electrophysiology procedure used to treat arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and supraventricular tachycardia. Catheters are guided into the heart chambers, where the abnormal electrical pathways are mapped and then neutralised using radiofrequency heat or cryotherapy. The procedure can significantly reduce or eliminate arrhythmia episodes and the need for long-term medication. It is typically performed under sedation or general anaesthesia with a short hospital stay.
Before you travel: what the CDC recommends
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes guidance for Americans travelling abroad for medical care. These are its recommendations, not ours.
- Check the qualifications of the clinician who will perform the procedure and the credentials of the facility.
- Bring copies of your medical records, including lab and other test results related to your condition.
- Make sure you can get follow-up care in the United States. Care for complications can be expensive and might not be covered by your health insurance.
- Obtain international travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation back to the United States.
- Plan for the possibility of paying out of pocket for additional or emergency care.
- See your own healthcare provider 4–6 weeks before the trip to discuss risks specific to your health.
- Delay air travel for 10–14 days after major surgery, particularly chest surgery, to reduce risks from changes in cabin pressure.
Doctors performing Cardiac Ablation
Cardiac Ablation abroad: frequently asked questions
How much does cardiac ablation cost in the U.S.?
Typically $10,000 to $50,000, according to CoveredUSA, 2026.
Will U.S. insurance pay for cardiac ablation abroad?
Most U.S. health plans do not pay for elective surgery abroad, and cosmetic procedures are not covered at all. The CDC also warns that care for complications after surgery abroad may not be covered, so check your plan before you book.