Grimm W, Hoffmann J, Menz V, Maisch B. Transient QT prolongation with torsades de pointes tachycardia after ablation of permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia.
J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1999;
10:1631-5. [PMID:
10636193 DOI:
10.1111/j.1540-8167.1999.tb00227.x]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Catheter ablation with radiofrequency energy is a curative therapy in patients with permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia (PJRT).
METHODS AND RESULTS
For the first time, we report a case of transient QT prolongation with torsades de pointes tachycardia 18 hours after successful radiofrequency energy ablation of PJRT in a 25-year-old woman with tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy. Of note, the torsades de pointes occurred in the absence of bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances, or QT-prolonging drugs. This patient initially was thought to have a hereditary long QT syndrome that was unmasked by PJRT ablation. Therefore, the patient received an implantable defibrillator in addition to beta-blocker therapy, which was discontinued 6 months later. Surprisingly, the QT interval completely normalized within 1 week after PJRT ablation, and the patient remained free of arrhythmias during a follow-up period of 4.5 years.
CONCLUSION
Patients with incessant tachyarrhythmias should undergo ECG monitoring for at least 24 hours following successful radiofrequency catheter ablation because transient QT prolongation with torsades de pointes may occur even in the absence of bradycardia, QT-prolonging drugs, or electrolyte disturbances.
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