Long-term results of zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation in pregnant patients with arrhythmias: a 2-year follow-up study

Type of funding sources: None.

Incidences of rhythm disturbance in pregnant are commonly seen. Catheter ablation of arrhythmias has been shown to be effective and safe. Data on perinatal outcomes and results of zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation in pregnant patients is limited.

the aim of our study is to observe long-term results and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with arrhythmias, treated by zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation method.

There were 48 pregnant women, who underwent zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation (Mean age of pregnant was 25.7±4.3 years, mean gestation age 24.1 ±3.2 weeks). Procedure-related complications, perinatal outcomes and arrhythmia recurrence were documented during 24 months follow-up.

The most common arrhythmias were atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (n=21; 43.75%). This was followed by Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome (n=15; 31.25%). Combination of accessory pathways with slow conduction ways were found in 3 cases (6.25%). In six cases were ablation due to frequent premature ventricular contraction (12.5%). Ventricular tachycardia was rare during pregnancy (n=3; 6.25%). Zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation was performed under the guidance of CARTO (n=21; 43.75%) and Ensite Precision systems (n=27; 56.25%). The median procedural time was 71±15 minutes. Interventions were effective in all cases (100%). Procedural complication was in one patient (2.1%), who developed an ileofemoral thrombosis. Pregnancy course after ablation procedure was benign in all patients. Perinatal outcomes: spontaneus vaginal delivery was in the majority of cases (n=36; 75%). Twelve pregnancies (25%) were delivered by cesarean section due to obstetric indicators. Intrapartum hemorrhage was 335.2±228.92 ml. Two women had placental abraption and preeclampsia (4.2%). Maternal adverse cardiac events were none declared. There were 48 live births (in all cases). Fetal birth weight was 3324.7±684.4 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8.4±1.3. There were no maternal and fetal mortality. At 24 months there were no arrhythmia recurrence.

Zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation method is safe and effective in pregnant women with arrhythmias. Pregnancy course and outcomes after this procedure is bening in the majority of cases.