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Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) Treatment: Expert Care for a Stable Heartbeat
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is a life-threatening heart rhythm disorder characterized by a fast and irregular heartbeat originating from the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles). If left untreated, VT can lead to sudden cardiac arrest or death. Patients with heart failure, structural heart disease, or genetic disorders are at higher risk of developing VT.
Dr. Deep Chandh Raja, a leading cardiac electrophysiologist in Chennai, specializes in diagnosing and treating complex VT cases. With advanced training and state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Raja provides personalized care to restore normal heart rhythm and improve quality of life.
What is Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)?
VT occurs when abnormal electrical signals in the ventricles cause the heart to beat too fast, often exceeding 100 beats per minute. This prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
Who is at Risk of VT?
Certain conditions and factors increase the risk of VT, including:
- Heart failure (especially with reduced pumping function)
- Previous heart attack or cardiomyopathy
- Genetic disorders such as Long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, or Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT)
- Severe Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP)
- Premature Ventricular Complexes (PVCs) or skipped beats
Why is VT Dangerous?
VT can deteriorate into Ventricular Fibrillation (VF), a chaotic rhythm that stops blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Without immediate treatment, this can lead to sudden cardiac death.
Diagnosis of Ventricular Tachycardia
Dr. Deep Chandh Raja uses advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify VT and its underlying causes:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects abnormal heart rhythms.
- Holter Monitor or Event Monitor: Tracks heart activity over 24-48 hours or longer.
- Echocardiogram: Assesses heart structure and function.
- Electrophysiology Study (EPS): Maps the heart’s electrical activity to pinpoint the source of VT.
Treatment Options for VT
Treating VT involves a personalized approach. Dr. Raja works with heart failure specialists and cardiac electrophysiologists to offer tailored care. Key treatments include:
Medications
Antiarrhythmic drugs or beta-blockers help control heart rhythm and prevent VT episodes.
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
An ICD monitors heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock to restore normal rhythm if VT or VF occurs.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
A minimally invasive procedure using heat to destroy tissue causing abnormal signals. Dr. Raja specializes in:
- Endocardial VT Ablation: Targets tissue inside the heart.
- Epicardial VT Ablation: Addresses tissue on the heart’s outer surface.
Advanced Technologies
Dr. Raja uses state-of-the-art tools for precision, including:
- 3D Navigation Systems: Maps heart electrical activity.
- Contact Force Catheters: Ensures proper tissue contact during ablation.
- Intracardiac Echocardiography (ICE): Provides real-time imaging.
