Conventional mapping and ablation of focal ventricular tachycardias in the healthy heart

Abstract

Ventricular tachycardias (VT) in the healthy heart, also known as idiopathic VTs, often have a focal origin. Triggered activity due to delayed after-depolarization is the most likely mechanism of focal VTs. Localization of the site of origin of focal VTs is based on activation mapping with or without combination with pace mapping. The characteristic anatomic site of origin of idiopathic VTs is the right and left outflow tract. Other sites include the tricuspid and mitral annulus, the papillary muscles, and Purkinje fibers. Catheter ablation is indicated for monomorphic symptomatic VT and can be an alternative to antiarrhythmic drugs. Success rates are high, but mapping and ablation can be challenging. We review the main electrophysiological findings and the important clues for ablation of focal VTs. Specific considerations for each location are considered.

Keywords: Cardiac electrophysiology; Catheter ablation; Conventional mapping; Electrophysiologic techniques, cardiac; Idiopathic ventricular tachycardias.