Radiofrequency ablation in children

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation has ushered in a new era in the management of patients with symptomatic tachyarrhythmias. By providing the ability to cure the underlying arrhythmic substrate, RF catheter ablation obviates the need for life-long antiarrhythmic drugs. In the reported series, the success has been high and the complications have been infrequent and relatively minor. Not unexpectedly, RF catheter ablation has become the treatment of choice for patients with symptomatic paroxysmal tachyarrhythmias. The role of radiofrequency catheter ablation in infants and small children remains controversial, and awaits a larger experience and longer follow-up data.