Radiofrequency ablation of accessory atrioventricular pathways: predictive value of local electrogram characteristics for the identification of successful target sites.

Local electrogram characteristics used to guide radiofrequency catheter ablation are all associated with a low positive predictive accuracy, which significantly contributes to duration of the operation. It is unlikely that this problem will be resolved solely by modification of the mapping techniques. It could require advances in catheter technology and power sources to enable larger tissue lesions to be delivered more reliably than is possible with the equipment in current use.