Brugada syndrome: a review and the role of epicardial ablation in management

Egypt Heart J. 2024 May 7;76(1):55. doi: 10.1186/s43044-024-00485-3.

Abstract

Background: Brugada syndrome (BrS) is an inherited arrhythmogenic syndrome characterized by cove-shaped ST-segment elevation in leads V1-V3 and incomplete or complete right bundle branch block. BrS exhibits autosomal dominant inheritance with incomplete penetrance and a male predominance. It carries a significant risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular fibrillation (VF).

Main body: Recent studies have highlighted the presence of epicardial fibrosis as a proarrhythmic substrate in BrS, revolutionizing our understanding of the disease's pathophysiology. Catheter ablation has emerged as a crucial intervention for symptomatic BrS patients experiencing recurrent episodes of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or VF. By potentially obviating the need for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation, epicardial ablation offers a promising therapeutic approach.

Conclusion: This review emphasizes the significance of current evidence and ongoing research in shaping the role of epicardial ablation as a curative strategy in BrS management, highlighting its potential benefits and the necessity for further investigation.

Keywords: Brugada syndrome; Implantable cardioverter–defibrillator; Sudden cardiac death; Ventricular fibrillation.

Publication types

  • Review