Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with
Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a common arrhythmia characterized by a rapid heart rate that originates above the ventricles, with a QRS complex duration typically less than 120 milliseconds. This condition can cause symptoms ranging from palpitations and dizziness to more severe manifestations like chest pain or syncope. Its management is crucial not only for symptom relief but also to prevent potential complications such as heart failure or stroke.
Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with The first line of treatment for narrow complex SVT often involves vagal maneuvers. These are simple, non-invasive techniques that stimulate the vagus nerve, thereby slowing conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. Common vagal maneuvers include the Valsalva maneuver, carotid sinus massage (performed cautiously to avoid complications), and the application of cold stimulus to the face. These techniques can be effective in terminating the arrhythmia in approximately 20-30% of cases, especially when performed early.
If vagal maneuvers fail to revert the rhythm to normal, pharmacological therapy becomes the next step. The most effective and widely used medications are AV nodal blocking agents, with adenosine being the drug of choice. Adenosine is a rapidly acting agent that transiently blocks conduction through the AV node, often resulting in the immediate termination of the tachycardia. Its rapid onset and short half-life make it ideal for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. When administered intravenously, typically as a bolus dose of 6 mg, followed by a flush, it can restore normal rhythm within seconds. If the initial dose is ineffective, a second dose of 12 mg may be given.
Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with In addition to adenosine, other medications such as beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) and calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem or verapamil) can be used, especially in cases where adenosine is contraindicated or ineffective. These drugs slow conduction through the AV node and can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the clinical scenario.
Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with Electrical cardioversion is generally reserved for unstable patients who exhibit signs of hemodynamic compromise—such as persistent hypotension, altered mental status, or ongoing chest pain. In such situations, synchronized electrical cardioversion provides rapid rhythm correction and stabilization.
Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with Long-term management of narrow complex SVT may involve catheter ablation, especially for recurrent episodes that significantly impair quality of life. Ablation targets the accessory pathways or ectopic foci responsible for the arrhythmia, offering a potential cure.
In summary, the best initial treatment for narrow complex SVT is vagal maneuvers, followed by pharmacological therapy with adenosine if maneuvers fail. The management approach should be tailored to the patient’s stability and underlying health status, with invasive procedures considered for recurrent or refractory cases. Narrow complex supraventricular tachycardia is best treated with
