The acute treatment of maternal supraventricular tachycardias during pregnancy: a review of the literature

Abstract

Objective: Since evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of acute supraventricular tachyarrhythmia (SVT) in pregnancy are not available, our objective was to document published reports and immediate outcomes in this patient population.

Data sources: A search of the literature was performed using Medline, Embase, CINAHL, American College of Physicians Journal Club, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, and Cochrance Central Register of Controlled Trials, using key word searching and citations in the English language literature from January 1950 to March 2010, on the subject of SVT.

Study selection/data extraction: We reviewed 38 studies (case-controlled cohort studies, case series, and case reports) using the key words "supraventricular tachycardia," "paroxysmal tachycardia," and "atrial tachycardia," combined with "pregnancy" or "pregnancy complications."

Conclusion: No randomized controlled trials have addressed the acute treatment of SVT in pregnancy. If non-invasive manoeuvres fail, adenosine should be the first-line agent for treatment if needed during the second and third trimester. There is a paucity of data on management of SVT in the first trimester.