Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

Alternative names:

preexcitation syndrome; WPW

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms by reducing the episodes of tachycardia.

Medication may be used to control or prevent tachycardia episodes, including adenosine, antiarrhythmics, and amiodarone. Digoxin, verapamil, and beta-blockers (other drugs commonly used to treat tachycardia) can increase the frequency of tachycardia episodes for some people with WPW.

Other treatments to stop a persistent episode of tachycardia may include electrical cardioversion (shock) or occasionally, pacemakers designed to interrupt the reentry cycle

Surgery may provide a permanent cure for Wolff-Parkinson-White. It involves destruction (ablation) of the accessory pathway through open heart surgery or catheter ablation procedures.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Ablation of the pathway (if it can be located) usually cures Wolff-Parkinson-White.

Complications:

• reduced blood pressure caused by sustained rapid heart rate
• heart failure
• side effects of medications used to treat Wolff-Parkinson-White (see the specific medication)
• complications of surgery

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate Wolff-Parkinson-White may be present, or if you have this disorder and symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.