One-year outcome after radiofrequency catheter ablation of symptomatic ventricular arrhythmia from right ventricular outflow tract

Abstract

Although ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) in patients without structural heart disease are benign, many patients experience disabling symptoms. Many patients need long-term medication, which is often ineffective and may have adverse effects. Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) may be an alternative treatment. RFCA was performed in 33 patients with severely symptomatic VPCs that were refractory to medication. Mean VPCs were 23,987 ± 2,077 beats/24 hours. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring, quality of life, and symptoms were assessed at a screening visit and 1 and 12 months after RFCA. RFCA was successfully performed in 32 patients (97%). This resulted in a significant improvement in symptoms, severity of ventricular arrhythmia, and quality of life at 1 and 12 months after the procedure. There were no major complications related to the procedure. Eight patients (24%) had residual arrhythmia. Five of them underwent repeated ablation with successful results. Thus, catheter ablation is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic ventricular arrhythmia from the right ventricular outflow tract. It also improves the quality of life. Catheter ablation is a viable alternative to drugs in the presence of disabling symptoms. © 2002 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.