Radiofrequency catheter ablation: indications and complications

Radiofrequency catheter ablation was first described in pediatric patients in the early 1990s. Since then, multiple advances in the technology and understanding of radiofrequency ablation have allowed this technique to blossom into one of the most powerful therapeutic tools available to the pediatric electrophysiologist. This treatment has, in the majority of cases, replaced arrhythmia surgery as the definitive cure for most arrhythmias. Ablation therapy is commonly implemented as an elective procedure to treat paroxysmal reentrant supraventricular tachycardia. There are several advantages to this therapy when used in the common indications: no exercise restrictions, no need for chronic drug therapy, and the avoidance of hospital visits for breakthrough episodes. This review will discuss the indications for radiofrequency ablation in the current era. In order to fully discuss this issue, this review will include the prior treatment of arrhythmias, current success rates, complications, and potential long-term issues.