A HEART CONDITION WITH AN EXTRA ELECTRICAL PATHWAY
Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome
A heart condition in which an extra electrical pathway between the upper and lower chambers causes episodes of rapid and abnormal heart rhythm. Often curable with catheter ablation.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a congenital heart condition in which an extra electrical pathway connects the upper and lower chambers of the heart. This extra pathway can allow electrical impulses to bypass the normal conduction system and cause episodes of rapid heart rhythm (tachycardia). Many people with WPW have no symptoms and are diagnosed incidentally on ECG, while others experience palpitations, lightheadedness, breathlessness or fainting. In a small number of patients with WPW and atrial fibrillation, very rapid rhythms can be dangerous. Diagnosis is based on ECG features and confirmed with electrophysiology testing. Treatment options include observation in asymptomatic patients, antiarrhythmic medical therapy in selected cases and catheter ablation, which can permanently remove the extra pathway and is often the definitive treatment. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and coordinated cardiology referral at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Congenital extra electrical pathway present from birth
- Usually not associated with other structural heart disease
- Sometimes runs in families
- Symptoms can be triggered by exertion, stress or stimulants
- Caffeine, alcohol and certain medications can trigger episodes
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
ECG showing characteristic features; confirmed with electrophysiology study
Variable — from no symptoms to recurrent palpitations and rare serious rhythms
Observation, antiarrhythmic medical therapy or catheter ablation
Often offers definitive cure in symptomatic patients
Specific medications should be avoided during pre-excited atrial fibrillation
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Catheter Ablation as Definitive Treatment
The most effective approach in symptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is catheter ablation, which can permanently remove the extra electrical pathway and is often curative. Selected patients are managed with antiarrhythmic medical therapy or close monitoring.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms and history, examines you and arranges ECG and cardiology referral for further electrophysiology evaluation.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A plan is made based on symptoms, ECG findings and the patient's overall risk and preferences.
- 3
Medical Management
Antiarrhythmic medical therapy where indicated, ECG monitoring and coordination of electrophysiology evaluation and ablation.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up to ensure symptom control, monitor for recurrence and address overall cardiovascular health.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy
Specific antiarrhythmic medical therapy may be used to prevent or control episodes in selected patients.
Catheter Ablation (Referral for cardiology / electrophysiology)
Catheter ablation precisely removes the extra electrical pathway and is often curative for WPW syndrome.
Avoidance of Specific Drugs in Pre-Excited AF
Certain medications can be dangerous if used during pre-excited atrial fibrillation in WPW and are specifically avoided.
ECG Monitoring
Regular ECG and rhythm monitoring helps assess symptoms and detect any further arrhythmias.
Cardiology Referral (Referral for cardiology)
Cardiology and electrophysiology review is recommended for confirmation, risk assessment and consideration of definitive treatment.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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