Treatment of catheter ablation in seven cases of preventricular contractions originating from the aortic root

AIM:To analyze the surface electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics and treatment of catheter ablation in premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) originating from the aortic root (AR). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was carried out in seven cases of PVCs originating from the AR that had been successfully ablated in our hospital from June 2010 to August 2012. RESULTS: Of the seven cases, three cases originated from above the aortic sinus ［one case in the right coronary sinus cusp (RCC), one case in the left coronary sinus cusp (LCC) and one case located at the LCC and RCC junction］ and four cases from below aortic sinus ［one case below the LCC and RCC junction, one case at aortomitral continuity (AMC), one case at the left triangular lobule below the LCC and one case at 12:00 of the mitral annulus］. The time of the bipolar electrocardiogram leading surface QRS wave at the final target was on average of 20-58(34±12) ms. Local potential polarity reversed in four patients (57%) during PVC attacks. No ablationrelated complications occurred. CONCLUSION: Catheter ablation of PVCs near the AR is safe and effective. Changes of surface ECG and local potentials during mapping may locate the origin of the PVCs.