Q. I developed atrial fibrillation (Afib) and had an ablation in 2021. I have not had any arrhythmias since then. How long do I need to stay on blood thinners?
A
Ten years ago, we thought ablation was curative, so after a successful ablation, we told patients they could discontinue taking blood thinners after six months. More recent data suggest ablation is less of a curative procedure and more of a way of controlling Afib. The more time that passes after an ablation, the greater the chance that Afib will recur. The symptoms of Afib are not always noticeable, yet the risk of stroke remains a threat. As a result, our recommendations for anticoagulation have changed. Although patients with few risk factors may discontinue the medication, more patients stay on anticoagulants for life. Whether or not it might be safe for you to discontinue taking blood thinners merits a conversation between you and the physician who did your ablation.
