Key result
Asymptomatic WPW pattern carries <1% annual risk of arrhythmia or incapacitating events in aviators.
Why the study?
Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern is occasionally found in asymptomatic aviators, raising aeromedical concerns about risk of dysrhythmia or sudden cardiac death affecting flight safety.
Population
638 asymptomatic USAF aviators with WPW pattern
Comparison
Aviators who developed high risk features vs those who remained asymptomatic
Design
Retrospective cohort study using USAF ECG library database
Follow-up
Average 10.5 years
Authors
Loading...
Supports aeromedical monitoring or waivers given <1% annual risk; leaves open optimal stratification for younger, fitter aviators.
Cohort (n=638)
Asymptomatic WPW pattern in aviators confers a low (<1%) annual risk of arrhythmia or incapacitating events, with higher risk observed in younger, healthier individuals.
Davenport et al. (2017) conducted a cohort in Asymptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern (n=638). Asymptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern was evaluated on combined endpoint of SCD, arrhythmia, and/or ablation of a high risk pathway. Asymptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern in USAF aviators conferred a <1% annual risk of arrhythmia or incapacitating events, with 10% progressing to a combined endpoint over 10.5 years.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: