Electrophysiological interventions for treatment of congestive heart failure in pediatrics and congenital heart disease

Abstract

Heart failure therapy, while well tested in the adult population, therapeutic interventions are less well defined in the pediatric population. Several treatment strategies are available for the adult patient with heart failure, thought few of these therapies have been proven in children. Morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population with a failing heart is significant, and rhythm management as well as strategies to improve hemodynamics are important in the care of these children. This review will address issues of rhythm management and resynchronization therapy in pediatric and congenital heart disease patients with heart failure.

Keywords::

• children
• congenital heart defect
• heart failure
• resynchronization
• sudden death