Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of the AV Node to Improve the Function of an Antitachycardia Implantable Defibrillator

A case of coexisting atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia in a patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator is described. Despite careful reprogramming, the device was not always able to distinguish between the two arrhythmias and continued to deliver inappropriate antitachycardia therapy including DC shocks. Attempts to pharmacologically control the atrial fibrillation were unsuccessful so radiofrequency ablation of the atrioventricular node was performed. Following successful ablation, there have been no further false detections nor episodes of further ventricular tachycardia.