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Question:
What are the risks associated with catheter and ablation procedures?
My son was diagnosed with WPW [Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome] based on EKG and med history. Dr suggested evaluation for treatment via catheter....ablation technique if determined significant and operable. Question: what are the specific risks with both the catheter and ablation procedures, percent of risk, and any information on what conditions lead to more risk?
submitted by Ray, from Seattle, Washington, on 11/8/09
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, Ali Massumi, MD
Ablation is the treatment of choice for symptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW). Risks are very small, depending on the location of the pathway (left or right, or the septum). In experienced hands, risk of major complications should be no more than 1%.
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Updated November 2009
