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Updated: May 29, 2026
28:13
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Catheter ablation of electrical storm
Thomas Deneke1, Bernd Lemke, Andreas Mügge
1University Heart Center Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany. t.deneke@khporz.de
Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy
|September 1, 2011
Summary
Electrical storm (ES), characterized by frequent ventricular arrhythmias (VA) in patients with defibrillators, can be effectively managed with catheter ablation. This complex procedure, when performed early and by experienced centers, improves survival and reduces recurrent arrhythmias.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Electrical storm (ES) involves ≥3 ventricular arrhythmia (VA) episodes within 24 hours in patients with implanted defibrillators.
- ES significantly impairs survival and predicts recurrent VA, necessitating advanced treatment strategies.
- Conventional rhythm stabilization may not always be sufficient for managing ES.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and role of catheter ablation in managing electrical storm (ES).
- To highlight the complexity and individualized approaches required for ES ablation.
- To emphasize the importance of early consideration and specialized centers for ES treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on catheter ablation for ES.
- Focus on individualized ablation strategies tailored to patient-specific cardiac abnormalities.
- Assessment of success rates and impact on patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Catheter ablation success rates for ES range from 79% to 94% in major studies.
- Effective ablation significantly improves patient survival and freedom from VA.
- Early intervention and specialized care are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Catheter ablation is a highly effective treatment for electrical storm (ES).
- Individualized ablation approaches and early intervention improve survival and reduce VA recurrence.
- Interhospital collaboration with experienced VA centers can enhance access to this critical therapy.
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