Neonatal atrial flutter: Three cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Atrial flutter (AFl) is known to be a seldom type of fetal and neonatal arrhythmia. Although it could end in severe morbidities such as hydrops fetalis or even death, with early prenatal diagnosis and prompt therapeutic approaches the majority of AFl cases show good prognosis. Neonatal AFl might be resistant to first step therapies. Therefore, secondary agents like flecainide, amiodarone, sotalol and cardioversion, if required, could be influent in perinatal tachyarrhythmia. In addition, close follow-up even after discharge is very important to keep all follow-up appointments. Herein, we present three cases of fetal/neonatal AFl in light of the literature and discuss the characteristics, diagnosis and treatment options.