Catheter Radiofrequency Ablation of Recurrent Para-Hisian Accessary
Pathways with Near Zero X-ray Exposure
Abstract
Introduction Radiofrequency (RF) ablation of parahisian accessory
pathways (PHAPs) is a serious challenge, which is associated with high
recurrence and fluoroscopy exposure. According to previous studies and
case reports, catheter ablation of PHAPs is associated with a high
post-ablation recurrence. The aim of this study is to assess the
efficacy, safety and long-term outcome of radiofrequency ablation in
patients with recurrent PHAPs after prior ablations with zero or
extremely low fluoroscopy. Methods and Results A total of 58 patients
(43 male, 75.4%) with PHAPs that had one or more previously
unsuccessful RF ablations were enrolled. RF ablation procedures were
performed under a three-dimensional guiding system (EnSite NavX, St.
Jude Medical, MN) with extremely low exposure of fluoroscopy to femoral
venous or arterial routes. The acute success rate was 96.6% (56/58).
Two procedures were terminated during ablation because of high risk of
complete AVB. In addition to a case of transient complete AVB during RF
energy delivery, no minor or major complications were recorded during
the procedure or long-term follow up. The mean fluoroscopy time was 98
seconds (0-129), and the mean radiation dose was 1.98 mGy (0-3.38) in
all 58 cases. Fourteen patients underwent the EPS and RF ablation with
zero X-ray exposure. The long-term success rate was 98.2% with a median
follow-up period of 30 (12-45) months. Conclusions With a near zero
X-ray exposure, RF ablation of recurrent PHAPs can be performed with a
high acute success rate and convincing safety during long-term
follow-up.