Transcutaneous Ablation of Septal Hypertrophy (TASH)
Transcutaneous Ablation of Septal Hypertrophy (TASH) is a minimally invasive cardiac procedure used to treat Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy (HOCM), a condition where the wall between the heart’s lower chambers (the septum) becomes thickened and obstructs blood flow from the left ventricle.
At CardioOne, this specialised procedure is performed by experienced interventional cardiologists using advanced imaging and catheter-based techniques to relieve obstruction and improve cardiac performance.
Understanding Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
In HOCM, the thickened septal muscle narrows the left ventricular outflow tract, making it harder for blood to leave the heart. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, and light-headedness.
TASH is considered when medications are insufficient to control these symptoms or when the obstruction persists despite medical therapy.
How the Procedure Is Performed
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and sedation in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory. A catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin and advanced into the heart under imaging guidance.
Using a contrast dye and echocardiography, the artery supplying the thickened section of heart muscle is identified. A small amount of absolute alcohol is then injected into this artery, creating a controlled, localised thinning of the septal tissue.
As the muscle shrinks and remodels over time, blood flow from the heart improves, and symptoms typically lessen.
State-of-the-art Facility
Located in Chermside Health Hub
Level 2, 621 Gympie Rd, Chermside
Duration and Monitoring
TASH usually takes around one to two hours. Continuous ECG and imaging monitoring are used to ensure precision and safety throughout the procedure. Patients typically spend two to three days in hospital for observation.
Recovery and Results
Following TASH, mild chest discomfort is common for a short period. Regular echocardiograms are arranged to assess improvement in blood flow and reduction in septal thickness. Most patients notice symptom relief over several weeks as the heart muscle heals.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Long-term follow-up includes routine cardiac reviews and imaging to ensure ongoing improvement and to manage any residual symptoms. In most cases, TASH provides lasting relief from obstruction without the need for open-heart surgery.