Radical Ideas: The Road to Conquering Supraventricular Tachycardia

Since its description in 1867, the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) was rudimentary at best until the introduction of digitalis glycosides and quinidine and subsequently the beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and other drugs. In this chapter, the author discusses the introduction of open heart surgery, followed by catheter ablation with D/C shocks and subsequently radiofrequency catheter ablation that assured permanent cure of this recurrent malady and the pioneers behind these spectacular developments. As an example, the author provides the stories of three of his patients, their suffering with PSVT and ultimate cure with surgery and radiofrequency ablation.