IBHRE Ablation Procedures and Techniques

Question 1

What primary energy source is used in radiofrequency catheter ablation?

Accepted Answer

Radiofrequency alternating electrical current

Answer

Radiofrequency ablation uses alternating electrical current at approximately 500 kHz that generates resistive heating to create coagulative necrosis.

Question 2

What catheter tip temperature range is typically targeted during radiofrequency ablation?

Accepted Answer

55–70°C

Answer

RF ablation targets catheter tip temperatures of 55–70°C to achieve effective tissue destruction while avoiding char formation and impedance rises.

Question 3

What key safety advantage does cryoablation offer compared to radiofrequency ablation?

Accepted Answer

Reversible freezing allows testing before permanent ablation

Answer

Cryomapping at around -30°C produces reversible ice injury, allowing assessment of effects such as AV block before committing to permanent cryoablation at -70°C.

Question 4

Pulmonary vein isolation is the cornerstone ablation strategy for which arrhythmia?

Accepted Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Answer

Pulmonary vein isolation electrically disconnects the pulmonary veins from the left atrium, eliminating the primary triggers of atrial fibrillation originating from these structures.

Question 5

Where is the 'slow pathway' targeted during catheter ablation of AVNRT?

Accepted Answer

Posteroseptal region near the coronary sinus os

Answer

The slow AV nodal pathway is located in the posteroseptal region between the tricuspid annulus and coronary sinus os, corresponding to the inferior nodal extension.

IBHRE - International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners Practice Test

IBHRE - International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners Practice Test

IBHRE Ablation Procedures and Techniques