The Short-term Post-Ablation Outcome of Patients With Low-Burden Premature Ventricular Complexes

The management of low-burden premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) (<10%) is currently a matter of debate among clinicians. Several small studies have shown an increased risk for left ventricular dysfunction in a lower PVC burden. Radiofrequency ablation is known to have favorable effects on PVC frequencies and left ventricular dysfunction. However, data are scarce regarding ablation in patients with low-burden PVCs, especially its benefits on symptom burden and the quality of life. This study aimed to compare symptom burden and the quality of life before and 6 months after ablation.

Thirty-one patients with low-burden PVCs who underwent radiofrequency ablation were assessed. The ASTA (Arrhythmia-Specific questionnaire in Tachycardia and Arrhythmia) was used to assess symptom burden and the quality of life in the patients. The score was calculated before and 6 months after ablation.

Significant differences existed in the mean scores before and 6 months after ablation concerning the ASTA burden scale symptom score (38.83 vs 4.45; P<0.05), the ASTA health-related quality of life (HRQoL) physical subscale (30.30 vs 1.91; P<0.05), the ASTA HRQoL mental subscale (32.41 vs 4.51; P<0.05), and the ASTA HRQoL total scale (32.09 vs 2.90; P<0.05).

Radiofrequency ablation was associated with a favorable outcome in terms of symptom burden and the quality of life in our patients with low-burden PVCs in the short term. (Iranian Heart Journal 2021; 22(4): 25-33)