Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Neonatal arrhythmias are defined as abnormal heart rates in the neonatal period. They may occur as a result of various cardiovascular, systemic and metabolic problems. Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is the most common arrhythmia in neonates. We aimed to evaluate the treatments and side effects of medications used in SVT treatment.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on newborns who were diagnosed with SVT during hospitalization or who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) because of a SVT diagnosis in NICU department of Buca Obstetric, Gynecology and Pediatrics Hospital in Izmir, Turkey from Dec 2016 to Dec 2017.

RESULTS

Overall, 30% had congenital heart disease as defined atrial septal defect. More than half of the infants received abortive therapy including adenosine. Acute therapy was used in 40% infants. The most commonly used acute therapy was amiodarone followed by esmolol. Secondary prevention therapy was used in %70 infants. The most commonly used secondary prevention therapies were beta-blockers, followed by sotalol.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

SVT is one of important causes of neonatal morbidity and a serious cause of mortality if untreated. The medications used in treatment are selected according to clinical observations. Side effects should be kept in mind as well as the benefits of the drugs used.