The Role of Radiofrequency Ablation for Pediatric Supraventricular Tachycardia

Radiofrequency ablation has become frontline therapy for many pediatric patients with common supraventricular tachycardia (SVTs). Rather than long-term treatment with medications, radiofrequency ablation offers the possibility of "cure" for certain SVT substrates. The decision to perform radiofrequency ablation should be made after full disclosure with the patient and parents about radiofrequency ablation (RFA) benefits and risk, alternative therapies, and the natural history of the SVT. This paper presents a discussion about the current status of RFA and common pediatric SVTs, as well as, discussing evolving RFA issues and indications.