Heart
Supraventricular Tachycardia
Sudden episodes of a rapid heartbeat that originates above the heart's lower chambers.
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a group of arrhythmias causing sudden episodes of rapid heart rate — typically 150–250 bpm. Catheter ablation achieves success rates exceeding 95% for common forms.
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SVT causes sudden bursts of rapid heartbeats due to abnormal electrical pathways, often treated effectively with catheter ablation.
Types of SVT
- AVNRT (most common, ~60%) — uses dual pathways near the AV node; predominantly affects women
- AVRT — involves accessory pathway between atria and ventricles; includes Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome
- Atrial Tachycardia — originates from focal site within atrial muscle; can be incessant and cause cardiomyopathy
Symptoms
- Sudden-onset rapid, regular palpitations
- Breathlessness and chest tightness
- Dizziness and presyncope
- Neck pulsations (characteristic of AVNRT)
- Syncope (uncommon, except with WPW complications)
Diagnosis
- 12-lead ECG during tachycardia
- Resting ECG (identifies delta wave in WPW)
- Holter monitoring or event recorder
- Electrophysiology study (EPS)
Acute Treatment
- Modified Valsalva manoeuvre
- Carotid sinus massage
- Intravenous adenosine
- Electrical cardioversion for severe cases
Long-Term Treatment
- Catheter ablation (definitive, first-line for symptomatic patients; >95% success rate)
- Antiarrhythmic medications: beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, flecainide
Concerned About Supraventricular Tachycardia?
Dr. Peter Chang offers specialist assessment and personalised management at Paragon Medical Centre, Singapore.