Coronary artery stenosis after radiofrequency catheter ablation of accessory atrioventricular pathways in children with Ebstein's malformation

Background-Complications concerning the coronary arteries that are directly related to radiofrequency catheter ablation procedures have not been repor ted in children. Coronary artery lesions, however, have been demonstrated a fter the endocardial application of radiofrequency current in young animals . Methods and Results-Two boys with Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve developed clinically asymptomatic coronary artery stenosis after radiofrequ ency catheter ablation of right-sided accessory atrioventricular pathways w ith standard catheter technology. Conclusions-The complication of coronary artery stenosis demonstrates a sub stantial risk after right atrial free wall radiofrequency current applicati on in children. The risk of late coronary alterations should be considered when the use of catheter ablation procedures to young patients is proposed.