Optimizing outcomes of catheter ablation in infants and toddlers

Since the introduction of transcatheter ablation in the late 1980s, there has been significant technical development. With a very high success rate and low complication rate, ablation has now become the standard of care in children and adults. However, long-term data remain insufficient and the application of ablation therapy in small children is debatable. In this review, current treatment strategies and results in toddlers and infants will be discussed. There has been improvement in success rate and complication rate for ablation in small children. Technological advancements in non-fluoroscopic electroanatomical mapping systems (3D systems) have led to the reduction of radiation and have facilitated ablations in complex cases. However, long-term effects of ablation lesions in small children remain a potential concern.