Original scientific paper
Long-Term Results and Learning Curve for Radio Frequency Ablation of Accessory Pathways
Robert Bernat
Dietrich Pfeiffer
Abstract
Radio frequency (RF) catheter ablation of accessory pathways represents an interventional
method in modern cardiology that has become the first-line treatment for patients
with symptomatic WPW-syndrome. The aim of this study was to analyze: (1) the
learning curve for the ablation procedure; (2) procedural parameters and success; and
(3) personal assessment of the treatment by the patients. Learning curve analysis included
195 consecutive patients, who underwent ablation between 1991 and 1996. The
follow-up survey included 65 consecutive patients. The analysis of the procedural parameters
showed significant improvement after 100 cases, implying a completion of the
learning curve at this point. Long-term follow-up showed a high success rate for all
pathways (95.4%). All procedure parameters indicated significantly higher degree of
difficulty for right free-wall and septal pathways, with lowest long-term success rate for
right-sided pathways (78.6%). Personal assessment survey showed high acceptance of
the treatment; the procedure was described as a significant improvement of overall quality-
of-life by 92.3% of patients. The results of this study confirm the catheter ablation of
accessory pathways – in particular after completion of the learning curve – as a low-risk
and highly efficient treatment for symptomatic WPW-syndrome, with a high degree of
patient-related acceptance.
Keywords
WPW-syndrome; catheter ablation; accessory pathways
Hrčak ID:
28114
URI
Publication date:
26.6.2003.
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