Magnetic Stimulation to Treat VT Storm

A Randomized Controled Trial of Transcutaneous Magnetic Stimulation of the Stellate Ganglion to Treat Ventricular Tachycardia Storm

Ventricular Tachycardia storm is a medical emergency characterized by three or more episodes of ventricular arrhythmia within 24 hours and associated with a significantly increased mortality and massive health resource utilization. Several therapies are utilized including sympathetic blockade (through deep sedation and beta blockers), antiarrhythmic drugs, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) reprograming where applicable, and catheter ablation. Despite standard intervention, mortality rates remain high and additional therapeutic options are actively being investigated.

The overall objective of this proposal is to investigate whether transcutaneous magnetic stimulation designed to inhibit the left stellate ganglion can be used in this population. This is a single-center, randomized, sham-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of transcutaneous magnetic stimulation of the left stellate ganglion to treat patients with ventricular tachycardia storm.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥ 3 episodes of VT in 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Implanted ventricular assist device
• Metal implanted in head or neck (except the mouth)
• Implanted medication pumps
• Cochlear implant
• Implanted brain stimulator
• Ocular implant
• History of active malignancy in region of stimulation (neck)