Catheter ablation techniques in managing arrhythmias

Abstract

Background: Pharmacological management of arrythmias is not curative, is sometimes difficult, and may be associated with significant morbidity. Objective: This article discusses the place of catheter ablation in the treatment of arrhythmias. Discussion: Supraventricular and typical atrial flutter can be cured with catheter ablation in approximately 95% of cases with very low complication rates. Catheter ablation can successfully restore and maintain sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and should be considered in symptomatic patients not controlled on medical therapy before the initiation of amiodarone. Results for AF ablation are best in paroxysmal patients without structu..