Pediatric Electrophysiology

Many tools are employed within the field of electrophysiology to facilitate reaching the correct diagnosis as well as to provide therapies for arrhythmia substrates. The 12-lead electrocardiogram remains the mainstay of initial diagnostic approach. However, there are additional effective noninvasive studies available based off of electrocardiographic principles. Similarly, the development of long-term monitoring with implantable loop recorders has enhanced the ability to monitor patients at risk for arrhythmia. In some cases, precise diagnosis may require invasive measures such as adenosine challenge or intracardiac electrophysiology study. Intervention upon arrhythmia substrates may include catheter ablation or device implantation. The purpose of this chapter is to familiarize the reader with the indications, advantages, and limitations of diagnostic and interventional methods in pediatrics and adult congenital heart disease.