What role do anticoagulants play in patients undergoing ablation for arrhythmias?

Anticoagulants play a crucial role in managing the risk of thromboembolic events in patients undergoing ablation for arrhythmias. During the ablation procedure, catheters are inserted into the heart, which can create areas of injury in the cardiac tissue. This increase in risk for clot formation necessitates the use of anticoagulants to reduce the likelihood of thrombus (blood clot) development in the heart chambers or veins. Lowering the risk of these clots is vital, as they can lead to serious complications such as stroke or systemic embolism. Therefore, utilizing anticoagulants is an essential part of ensuring patient safety during and after the ablation procedure, thereby promoting better outcomes.