Interventional catheterization for tachyarrhythmias.

Abstract

Catheter ablation of cardiac tachyarrhythmias is unique among our therapeutic armamentarium because it offers the ability to cure certain tachyarrhythmias permanently without implanted devices. TICM that is not distinguishable from idiopathic DCM can also resolve once the underlying tachyarrhythmia is eliminated. Current techniques are best suited to tachyarrhythmias in which a point lesion or small linear burn would result in disruption of the tachyarrhythmia's substrate. The equipment and expertise required limit the availability of this treatment modality in veterinary medicine. Its success with SVTs (particularly those secondary to accessory pathways), however, make it a viable option for many owners, even if they must travel some distance to reach a center performing these procedures.