Advances in applications of radiofrequency current to catheter ablation therapy

In the past 5 years, numerous reports have appeared of the use of radiofrequency (RF) current as an energy source for catheter ablation therapy of cardiac arrhythmias. Laboratory investigations using in vitro and in vivo animal models to study the biophysical and histologic effects as well as to assess the efficacy and safety of this technique in ablating various cardiac structures have been extensively performed and have led to successful applications in humans. Clinical experience with RF catheter ablation of the AV junction and accessory pathway has proliferated each year. However, experience with RF ablation of the VT focus remains quite limited. With further advances in catheter electrode design for mapping and ablation, a widespread application of RF catheter ablation to the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias is anticipated.