[Ablation of the accessory pathways by radiofrequency currents]

The introduction of ablative methods has revolutionised therapeutic strategy in cardiac arrhythmias. Accessory pathways are the most commonly targeted arrhythmogenic substrate. Several parameter may be used to determine the optimal site of ablation: accessory pathway potential, atrioventricular interval, atrial or ventricular pole of the pathway, morphology of the unipolar wave. The localisation of the accessory pathway sometimes requires specific techniques. The success rate reported in the literature is generally over 90%. However, the number of applications of radiofrequency current varies according to the authors from an average of three to eight. A combination of "timing related" criteria and direction of activation and the use of infraliminal stimuli minimise the number of radiofrequency applications. The incidence of complications in multicenter registers is 5% and the relapse rate is 8%. The long-term effects of catheter ablation are unknown, especially when used in childhood. A certain reserve should be maintained in the indications of ablation. Only high-risk, life-threatening arrhythmias, or those resistant to pharmacological intervention, are formal indications. Other (so-called "convenience") indications depend on the express wish of patients clearly informed of the advantages and risks of this method.