Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome is a congenital arrhythmia that occurs when there is an extra conduction pathway in the heart outside the normal electrical conduction route. This condition can lead to sudden and rapid heartbeats, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and rarely loss of syncope (fainting). People who experience these complaints, especially during or after exercise, should definitely undergo a cardiological evaluation.
The most effective method for permanent treatment of WPW syndrome is catheter ablation. By burning the extra conduction pathway, the arrhythmia can be completely eliminated (success rate 95-98%), and patients can often return to their normal lives without using medication. In addition, rhythm-regulating medications can control symptoms, but certain drugs (especially certain antidepressants and antiarrhythmics) should be avoided. Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco consumption, and avoiding excessive stress and sleep deprivation can also help prevent attacks.
What is WPW Syndrome?
Wolff-Parkinson-White or WPW syndrome is a condition where an extra electrical pathway present in the heart from birth causes rhythm disturbances by accelerating heartbeats. This extra pathway can disrupt normal electrical conduction, causing the heart to beat very fast or irregularly. WPW syndrome can cause palpitations, dizziness, and rarely sudden death. This congenital disorder is usually diagnosed in young adults but can be seen in any age group.
In a normal heart, electrical signals are transmitted in a specific order. The heartbeat starts with an electrical signal emanating from the sinus node in the right atrium. This signal spreads to the atria, causing them to contract. Then, the signal passes through the AV node located between the atria and ventricles, reaches the ventricles, and causes the ventricles to contract.
In WPW syndrome, there is an extra electrical pathway independent of the AV node. This additional pathway causes the electrical signal to pass through both the normal pathway and this abnormal pathway. As a result, accelerations and irregularities occur in heartbeats.
What Causes WPW Syndrome?
People with WPW (Wolff Parkinson White) syndrome have an abnormal extra pathway in their heart. The electrical signal creates an electrical loop using the abnormal extra pathway and the normal pathway (AV node). During this time, each loop causes a heartbeat, and palpitations begin. Palpitations that start this way, continue for a while, and then stop are called paroxysmal tachycardia. Some people may have an extra conduction pathway but do not experience symptoms. This accessory pathway may need to be tested through an electrophysiological study. Accessory pathways with weak conductive properties cannot cause palpitations and may not pose a risk to the patient.
What are the Symptoms of WPW Syndrome?
Symptoms of WPW syndrome can include palpitations, chest pain with palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. In rare cases, it can be life-threatening. This is due to a arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation that occurs in the atrium being transmitted to the ventricle via the extra conduction pathway, significantly increasing the heart rate.
How is WPW Syndrome Diagnosed?
WPW syndrome is diagnosed by performing a test called an ECG. Sometimes a 24-hour ECG recording called a Holter monitor can also help with diagnosis. The ECG can show where this abnormal pathway is in the heart. If your doctor is going to perform ablation treatment, they can predict where the abnormal pathway is before the procedure.
How is WPW Syndrome Treated?
WPW syndrome treatment is addressed in two stages: stopping the palpitations and eliminating the disease. To stop palpitations in WPW treatment, the patient can perform maneuvers such as coughing and straining (may be effective in some patients). Various medications can be used in the hospital, or sometimes electric shock (cardioversion) can be applied.
A procedure called “Ablation” is used to eliminate WPW syndrome. WPW ablation is performed using cold or hot energy. The abnormal pathway is found and rendered non-functional. The success rate of WPW ablation is high. During the procedure, catheters are sent to the heart through veins or arteries in the groin. The heart’s electrical signal is evaluated, and the location of the abnormal area is determined. The abnormal area is burned or frozen with special catheters. This method can completely eliminate the disease, and the likelihood of recurrence is low.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About WPW Syndrome
Is WPW syndrome dangerous?
WPW syndrome is often benign, but in some cases, it can lead to serious arrhythmias and rarely sudden cardiac death.
Does WPW syndrome affect pregnancy?
WPW syndrome generally does not cause a significant problem during pregnancy, but close monitoring is required.
What is the success rate of WPW ablation?
The success rate of WPW ablation is between 95-98%. The disease is usually eliminated.
Reference: WPW Syndrome