VPO

VPO refers to a condition known as Ventricular Pre-excitation Syndrome. It is a cardiac disorder characterized by the presence of an accessory electrical pathway in the heart, in addition to the normal conduction system. This accessory pathway allows electrical impulses to bypass the usual AV node, leading to premature activation of the ventricles. This premature activation can cause a rapid heart rate, known as supraventricular tachycardia, which can manifest as palpitations, dizziness, or even fainting.

The most common form of VPO is Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, named after the physicians who first described it. Diagnosis typically involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) which can reveal a characteristic delta wave and a short PR interval. Electrophysiology studies can further confirm the presence and location of the accessory pathway.

Treatment for VPO depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms. For asymptomatic individuals, observation may be sufficient. For those experiencing symptomatic arrhythmias, medications such as beta-blockers or antiarrhythmic drugs may be prescribed. In more severe or persistent cases, catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that aims to destroy the accessory pathway, is often considered the treatment of choice. The long-term prognosis for individuals with VPO, especially after successful ablation, is generally good.