What is often the first-line treatment for supraventricular tachycardia in pediatric patients?

Vagal maneuvers are a standard first-line treatment for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in pediatric patients. These non-invasive techniques work by stimulating the vagus nerve, which can help to slow down the heart rate and potentially revert the tachycardia to a normal rhythm. They are often simple and can include actions like the Valsalva maneuver, ice water immersion, or applying pressure to the neck area.

Using vagal maneuvers is particularly advantageous in a pediatric setting because they can be performed without the need for medication or invasive procedures, reducing potential risks and complications. They can often resolve the SVT quickly in an outpatient or emergency setting, making them a preferred initial strategy.

In contrast, other treatment options like high-dose beta-blockers are typically not the first line due to potential side effects and the requirement for careful dosing and monitoring. Ablation therapy is usually considered when SVT is recurrent and unresponsive to initial treatments. Cardiac resynchronization therapy is more relevant to heart failure management rather than directly addressing acute SVT episodes.