Modification of the atrioventricular node. A new approach to the treatment of supraventricular tachycardias.
Atrioventricular nodal modification appears to be a relatively safe and effective treatment option for patients with refractory AV nodal reentrant tachycardia. Hopefully, the long-term results will be as encouraging as the initial experience. Newer surgical and catheter techniques, together with a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying AV nodal reentrant tachycardia, may lead to improved efficacy and safety. In the future, AV nodal modification may obviate the need for drug therapy in patients with symptomatic AV nodal reentrant tachycardia and be applied to the treatment of other supraventricular tachycardias.
Cardiovascular Section, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
L M
LM
Epstein
M M
MM
Scheinman
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001283:Atrioventricular Node / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D002304:Cardiac Pacing, Artificial; D004554:Electric Countershock; D004564:Electrocoagulation; D004594:Electrophysiology; D006329:Heart Conduction System / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D011846:Radio Waves; D013611:Tachycardia, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry / Q000628:therapy*; D013617:Tachycardia, Supraventricular / Q000628:therapy*
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents