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Invasive electrophysiologic evaluation in octogenarians: is age a limiting factor?
A B Wagshal1, C D Schuger, B Habbal
1Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01602.
American Heart Journal
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Electrophysiologic testing in patients aged 80 and older is valuable for diagnosing arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities. Complication rates are comparable to younger patients, making it a safe and useful diagnostic tool.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Electrophysiologic testing (EP) is crucial for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias.
- Data on EP testing in the elderly (>=80 years) is limited.
- Assessing safety and efficacy in this population is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the indications for EP testing in elderly patients.
- To determine the diagnostic yield of EP testing in this demographic.
- To assess the incidence of complications associated with EP testing in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 60 EP procedures in 45 patients aged >=80 years.
- Procedures performed over a 7-year period.
- Analysis of indications, diagnostic findings, and complications.
Main Results:
- High yield for inducible ventricular tachycardia (31%) and supraventricular tachycardia (4%).
- Identified significant conduction abnormalities requiring pacemaker implantation in 9% of patients.
- Low complication rate: 2.2% of patients experienced deep venous thrombosis and femoral artery pseudoaneurysm.
Conclusions:
- Invasive electrophysiologic procedures provide valuable diagnostic information in elderly patients.
- The diagnostic yield is significant for arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities.
- Complication rates are comparable to those in younger patient populations, supporting its use in the elderly.