Radiofrequency catheter ablation as a cure for idiopathic tachycardia of both left and eight ventricular origin

Objectives. The purpose of this study was 1) to investigate the efficacy and safely of radiofrequency energy catheter ablation as curative treatment for idiopathic tachycardia of both left and right ventricular origin, and 2) to compare the usefulness of different methods used to map the site of origin of idiopathic veotricular tachycardia. The site of origin of both left and right ventricular tachycardia was mapped using earliest endocardial activation times during tachycardia and by pace mapping. These mapping techniques were compared. Results. Radiofrequency ablation was successful in all eight patients (100%) with left ventricular tachycardia. Tachycardia recurred in one patient. The ablation procedure was complicated by mild aortic insufficiency in one patient. Right ventricular outflow tract tachycardia was successfully ablated in 17 (85%) of 20 patients. The success rate at follow-up was 85%. In one patient, the ablation procedure was complicated by acute ventricular perforation and death. Pace maps from successful ablation sites were better than pace maps from unsuccessful sites (p < 0.004). Endocardial activation times at successful ablation sites were not different from unsuccessful sites (p < 0.13). Conclusions. Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an effective treatment for idiopathic ventricular tachycardia. The site of origin of tachycardia is best identified using pace mapping. Significant complications can occur and should be considered in the risk/benefit analysis for each patient.