Encircling endocardial ventriculotomy for refractory ischemic ventricular tachycardia. IV. Clinical indications, surgical technique, mechanism of action, and results

The clinical indications and contraindications for the use of the encircling endocardial ventriculotomy (EEV) in the treatment of refractory ischemic ventricular tachycardia are discussed. Our rationale for employing a variety of approaches including the EEV, endocardial resection, and cryosurgery is presented. The surgical technique of the EEV and the surgical results of indirect and direct operations are discussed.