Ventricular Tachycardia
1. What is ventricular tachycardia?
2. Is this a life-threatening arrhythmia?
3. What causes ventricular tachycardia?
4. What are the treatment options for ventricular tachycardia?
5. What is the success rate for the cardiac catheter ablation procedure for ventricular tachycardia?
1. What is ventricular tachycardia?
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is an arrhythmia that originates from the lower chambers of the heart. The normal electrical conduction system begins in the right atrium. In VT, there is a focus (area) in the ventricles that starts this type of heart rhythm and takes over to drive the heart rate faster.
2. Is this a life-threatening arrhythmia?
Yes, ventricular tachycardia (VT) can be a life-threatening arrhythmia. The majority of the time it is associated with symptoms like passing out, low blood pressure and dizziness. However, it can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest.
3. What causes ventricular tachycardia?
The majority of the time, ventricular tachycardia is caused by underlying structural heart problems like coronary artery disease, heart attacks or heart failure. Some people may have alterations in their electrocardiogram or genetic mutations that alter the signals in the heart and increase the risk of VT. In some cases, VT can occur in people with normal hearts and no other medical problems.
4. What are the treatment options for ventricular tachycardia?
Medications can be used to help control and prevent ventricular tachycardia (VT). Additionally, catheter ablation is a recommended treatment for some types of VT. Implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) can be recommended when VT cannot be eliminated with medication and is associated with symptoms like low blood pressure and passing out. This device will treat rapid VT by delivering an electric shock to reset the heart's rhythm.
5. What is the success rate for the cardiac catheter ablation procedure for ventricular tachycardia?
The overall success rate for catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) is approximately 70-75%. Success rates can be higher or lower depending on factors such as the originating location of the VT and the cardiac health of the individual patient.