Radiofrequency catheter ablation of aberrant conducting pathways of the heart

A panel of 68 cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons reports that radiofrequency catheter ablation is an effective treatment for atrial arrhythmias caused by accessory pathways. Accessory pathways are nerve fibers in the heart that bypass the normal electrical conduction system. Individuals with Wolff-Parkinson-White have accessary pathways, and they are susceptible to ventricular arrhythmias, which are very dangerous. Atrial arrhythmias are often treated with drugs, but in the early 1980's, a catheter was developed that could deliver an electric current to the accessory pathway that would destroy it. In 1985, radiofrequency catheters were developed, which are easier to control and safer. Studies of over 500 patients treated with this technique have shown that over 90% can be cured without the need for lifelong drug treatment. The effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation of AV nodal reentrant arrhythmias is less certain.