Low-energy radiofrequency catheter ablation as therapy for supraventricular tachycardia in a premature neonate

Eur J Pediatr. 2005 Sep;164(9):559-62. doi: 10.1007/s00431-005-1686-z. Epub 2005 May 12.

Abstract

A premature neonate with hydrops was born at 32 weeks of gestation after successful direct fetal amiodarone therapy via cordocentesis for incessant supraventricular tachycardia. After birth the tachycardia could not be controlled despite high doses of amiodarone and flecainide and the patient developed severe respiratory and circulatory failure. After 3 weeks, weighing 2 kg, he underwent successful and uncomplicated catheter ablation of a left free-wall accessory pathway using low-energy radiofrequency.

Conclusion: radiofrequency catheter ablation is rarely used in neonates, but when used with caution may provide the optimal treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Catheter Ablation*
  • Echocardiography
  • Electrocardiography
  • Humans
  • Hydrops Fetalis / diagnosis
  • Hydrops Fetalis / surgery
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature*
  • Male
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / etiology
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / surgery
  • Shock / etiology
  • Shock / surgery
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular / complications
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular / diagnosis
  • Tachycardia, Supraventricular / surgery*
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal