Short-term efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for idiopathic premature ventricular contractions

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are common arrhythmias that may impair quality of life and lead to PVC-induced cardiomyopathy. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as an effective treatment option for symptomatic and drug-refractory idiopathic PVCs, yet real-world data remain limited. This retrospective single-center study included 53 patients who underwent RFA for idiopathic PVCs between December 2022 and June 2024. Demographic, clinical, and procedural data were analyzed. Acute procedural success, 6-month recurrence, and complications were evaluated according to PVC localization. The mean age of the cohort was 52.1 ± 12.9 years, and 62.3% were female. Acute procedural success was achieved in 84.9% of patients. The most frequent origin was the right ventricular outflow tract (60.4%), followed by the left ventricle (26.4%), coronary cusp (11.3%), and para-Hisian region (1.9%). At 6-month follow-up, recurrence occurred in 6.6% of patients. Complications included 2 cases of steam pop with mild pericardial effusion and 2 cerebrovascular events, both with complete recovery. Age was identified as an independent predictor of acute procedural success (P < .05). RFA is a safe and effective treatment for idiopathic PVCs, providing high acute success and low recurrence rates. Early intervention in symptomatic or drug-refractory patients may improve outcomes and help prevent PVC-induced cardiomyopathy.