Arrhythmias in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension and Right Ventricular Failure: Importance of Rhythm Control Strategies

Abstract

Arrhythmias frequently complicate the course of advanced pulmonary hypertension, often leading to hemodynamic compromise, functional impairment, and mortality. Given the importance of right atrial function in this physiology, the restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm are of critical importance. In this review, we outline the pathophysiology of arrhythmias and their impact on right heart performance; describe considerations for antiarrhythmic drug selection, anesthetic and periprocedural management; and discuss the results of catheter ablation techniques in this complex and challenging patient population.

Keywords

• arrhythmias
• pulmonary hypertension
• atrial fibrillation
• atrial flutter antiarrhythmia drugs
• rhythm control catheter ablation