[Learning curve in performing radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathways in patients with Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome].

Introduction: This study examines the effect of operator experience on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of accessory pathways success rate in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome.

Material And Methods: The first 100 consecutive patients with WPW syndrome treated by radiofrequency ablation at our Clinic, were divided into group A (first 50 patients) and group B (the following 50 patients). Various parameters were compared between these 2 groups.

Results: The success rate in group A was 69% and in group B 92%, p < 0.01. There were 6 patients with recurrent WPW syndrome, after 3 months of follow-up, 5 were from group A and 1 from group B, p < 0.05. Significantly more applications of radiofrequency energy were delivered in group A (10.0 +/- 4.8 in group A and 6.2 +/- 3.1 in group B, p < 0.05). Two patients from group A presented with complications: one had intermittent complete AV-block, and the other pericardial effusion.

Conclusion: This study shows a clear learning curve in performing RFA of accessory pathways in patients with WPW syndrome.